Residents of Bowling are being invited to give feedback on the development of landscaping and paths within the former Exxon site.

The Glasgow City Region City Deal project has taken a significant step forward with planning permission granted for the first phase of works.

The upcoming consultation will focus on the landscaping and path development within the project area, opening up public access to the riverside site for the first time in several years.

Councillor David McBride, convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, said: "This is another important step in the overall project to develop this site.

"I would encourage local people who have an interest to make sure their views are known.

"It will be fantastic to see this progress and ultimately to have this site opened up for public access for the first time in decades."

Before a separate planning application for these developments is submitted later in the year, West Dunbartonshire Council wants to gather local opinion on the proposed plans.

A face-to-face consultation is scheduled for February 7 from 3pm to 7.30pm at Bowling Hall, with a formal presentation at 4.30pm.

The council said the former Exxon site is currently undergoing extensive soil remediation, under the keen eye of both the Council's Environmental Health Team and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).

Any developmental plans for the site, which remains in close proximity to three Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) along the River Clyde foreshore, must take into consideration the potential impacts on local wildlife.

The proposed planting design, according to the council, aims to utilise native species to create a lasting parkland habitat and enhancing the area's biodiversity.

Councillor Lawrence O'Neill, chairperson of Planning and vice convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “This is a great opportunity for local people to get involved in what will be a significant development, benefitting the whole of West Dunbartonshire and beyond.

"I hope residents take the opportunity to find out more about these plans and to give their feedback to help shape the project.”

Residents can give their feedback using paper questionnaires at Bowling Hall or online via the West Dunbartonshire Council website.

The consultation will remain open for four weeks, after which all feedback will be collated and a report published on the council's website.