A former children’s playground in Alexandria has been sold to developers planing to build a new home.

Members of the infrastructure, regeneration and economic development (IRED) committee approved the sale of the vacant land on Gaitskell Avenue to William Mayberry for £25,500 with the potential for a further sum of £10,000 on receipt of a successful planning consent.

The site was previously used as a children’s playground but is currently unused and surplus to the requirements of any council service.

It is also within a residential area and initial discussions with the planning department show that residential properties could be developed there provided they comply with the relevant local development plan and policies. 

The land was marketed for sale in October and November last year where West Dunbartonshire Council received four offers ranging from £2,000 to £25,000 – with the highest offer from William Mayberry deemed the most appealing.

During the meeting questions were raised about the future of the site and what this would mean for local residents. 

Council leader, councillor Martin Rooney said: “There has always been an issue about street lighting and not being able to put street lighting towards number 46 (Gaitskell Avenue) and when the new house comes, maybe the developers can take that into account.

“I don’t know if we can force them to put a street light in but there might be an opportunity to get this long standing issue resolved.”

Michelle Lynn, asset co-ordinator, said: “That will come through the planning process. The intention is to develop one house or two semi detached homes.”

A planning application will be submitted to the council in due course.