Work to transform a green space in Alexandria is complete after input from residents and the council’s communities team.

The area, on India Street, was highlighted for improvements by members of the Central Alexandria Tenants and Residents Association (CATRA).

They said that the site on the banks of the River Leven gave the wrong impression of the area.

Now after months of hard work - and help from the council’s Your Community initiative – the area’s new look has been unveiled.

Improvements include the installation of a unique mural by artist Barry the Cat which reflects tenants’ ideas.

Community members also organised repairs to the broken wall, as well as installation of three benches and a wheelchair-friendly picnic table.

Councillor Diane Docherty, Councillor Caroline McAllister and council leader Jonathan McColl met with residents who were involved in the transformation at the site this week.

Councillor Diane Docherty, Convener of Housing and Communities, said: “The Communities Team listened to the views of the local residents and members of the Central Alexandria Tenants and Residents Association (CATRA) and assisted them to develop their ideas into a project.

"Their ideas and ambition means that the project now offers the community an area where they can relax and enjoy the ambiance and natural beauty of this river side location.

“This project has already been such an inspiration and tenants are considering what further improvements could be made locally, as well as how to use the new-look area for future events.”

Caroline McAllister, vice convener of housing and communities, added: “This has made a real difference to the look of the area and breathed new life into it.

“The idea of Your Community is to allow residents the chance to have a real say in what needs to be improved in their area, and give them real pride in their surroundings.

“Having spoken to the residents today, I know that the initiative has done just that here. I hope the whole community can enjoy the new look, and India Street can become the perfect spot for events.”

The project was funded by the Your Community Improvement Fund.

The fund supports community-based projects where residents have aspirations to improve their area and can demonstrate an appetite from their community to get involved and make lasting positive change.

The Communities Team staff for Dumbarton & Vale of Leven can be contacted on either 01389 737228 or 737199.