The second phase of work to restore Balloch Castle to its former glory has began.

The 200-year-old A-listed building was in a derelict condition until the council stepped in to repair the much-loved community asset.

Work to make the castle wind and watertight is currently taking place as part of a £1 million project, and is due to be completed in August.

Once finished West Dunbartonshire Council will consider future uses for the historic building, but community members hope a cafe or similar business is included in the plan.

Last year, work was carried out to rebuild chimneys and fix stone parapets as part of the first phase of the upgrade.

A council spokesman said: “The work currently being carried out at Balloch Castle is the second phase of a £1m building upgrade project to make the building wind and watertight. It is expected to be completed by the end of August, following reroofing, treatment works to the clock tower and general stone repairs.

“This follows the first phase of work, carried out last year, which included rebuilding chimneys, replacement of gutters and downpipes, repairing the main turret and fixing stone parapets.”

Formerly known as Ardoch Castle, Balloch Castle was built as a residence in 1808 by the

architect Robert Lugar at the order of John Buchanan of Ardoch, a partner in the Glasgow Ship Bank who went on to become a Member for Parliament for Dunbartonshire.