Construction has started on a £3m project to transform a key site in Airdrie town centre.

Old Wellwynd Church is being redeveloped into a social enterprise centre – One Wellwynd - which will boost the local economy and provide community facilities for Airdrie's residents.

Speaking at a sod cutting ceremony to mark the start of construction, Provost Tom Curley said: "One Wellwynd is a landmark development for Airdrie town centre. It will bring new life into this unique building and will be a real asset for local people. The type of organisations that the centre is designed for will provide vital support services for people and play an important role within their community.

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"This development is a key part of the council's multi-million pound plans to regenerate Airdrie town centre and make it a better place for people to live and work."

One Wellwynd will provide accommodation for voluntary sector groups, such as charities, community and voluntary organisations, as well as facilities for the community including a cafe, creche, conference facilities and meeting rooms. There will also be shop front facilities in the new section of the building, which is being built using the latest sustainable construction techniques and materials.

The facade of the former church building will be retained, while the adjacent former Scout hall has been demolished and the rest of the site cleared to accommodate a new build element and on-site car park.

During the construction, the lane running in front of the building to South Bridge Street car park will be closed and will fully re-open on completion.

The project will redevelop the "C" listed former church building, which has been dis-used since 1995.

The project is being funded in partnership with Clyde Valley Housing Association.

The centre is due to open in autumn 2010.

(GK/BMcc)