North Lanarkshire Council has approved its largest-ever capital investment programme, committing £1.685 billion over the next five years to revitalise towns, schools, housing, roads, and community facilities. Councillor Jim Logue, leader of the council, described the investment as a "transformational step" towards a modern and thriving future for the area.

The Strategic Capital Investment Programme 2024/25 to 2028/29, presented to councillors on Thursday, March 13, outlines how the investment will generate significant employment and business opportunities, attracting new investment through improved infrastructure and town centres.

Key investment areas include:

• £347 million for new Town and Community Hubs in Abronhill, Glenboig, and Ravenscraig. 

• £41 million for improvements to schools, cultural spaces, and leisure facilities. 

• £95 million for City Deal infrastructure, including the East Airdrie Link Road. 

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• £45 million for town centre regeneration, with a focus on Cumbernauld. 

• £37 million for roads, bridges, and flood defences. 

• £18 million for parks, including the redevelopment of Strathclyde Park Watersports Centre. 

• £23 million for digital and business system upgrades.

• £13 million to support local Community Boards and community asset transfers.

The Community Investment Fund (CIF), supported by a portion of Council Tax increases, is a crucial part of the programme, enabling additional funding for local regeneration.

In addition to the general capital programme, the council’s Housing Revenue Account (HRA) Capital Programme will invest a further £829 million in housing over the next five years, including:

• £539 million for mainstream housing improvements, such as modernisation and energy efficiency measures.

• £290 million for the construction of new, affordable homes.

Councillor Logue said: "This level of record-breaking funding is a transformational step to reshape North Lanarkshire and is like no other in Scotland. We are ensuring that our communities benefit from high-quality schools, improved transport links and revitalised town centres, making North Lanarkshire the place to live, learn, work, invest and visit. This programme reflects our ambition to grow North Lanarkshire’s economy. We are creating thriving schools, stronger businesses, and well-connected communities. The Community Investment Fund plays a vital role in ensuring we can continue to deliver these improvements, providing a sustainable way to invest in our future. This is about long-term sustainability. We are laying the foundations for future generations while creating jobs and boosting local businesses today."