Ambitious plans to redevelop Twechar's canalside will soon be realised after representatives from East Dunbartonshire Council and the Twechar Regeneration Group attended an official groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday 13th February 2008 to mark the beginning of construction work.

Councillor Billy Hendry, Convener of East Dunbartonshire Council's Development & Environment Committee, was joined by the Twechar Regeneration Manager, John Gray, on the banks of the Forth and Clyde Canal which are set to undergo a major transformation.

The Forth and Clyde Canal runs along the northern edge of Twechar and is seen as playing a vital role in the overall regeneration of the town.

On completion the new riverside development will comprise a slipway, a new access road, a platform for a mobile crane, marine industrial units and a pontoon which will allow passing barges/boats to moor.

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It is hoped that the improvement works will not only help transform the area's image but provide a welcomed boost to Twechar's potential tourist appeal. Other options such as a community boathouse, a shop, a village hub, a visitor centre and a bunkhouse are also being considered by the Twechar Regeneration Group.

Luddon Construction has been appointed to oversee the first phase of the development which is being project-managed by East Dunbartonshire Development Company on behalf of East Dunbartonshire Council and the other partner members of the Twechar Regeneration Group. The Group represents the local community and a number of public sector organisations including East Dunbartonshire Council.

The canalside development is not the only part of the regeneration masterplan that is gathering pace. The Twechar Regeneration Group is currently inviting members of the local community and other interested parties to offer their opinions on architects' proposals for the design of new housing in the village.

Following the consultation process, a decision will be made by a selection panel that will include representatives from the community. The process will be overseen by Places for People (PfP) which is one of the largest development and property management companies in the UK.

Castle Rock Edinvar Housing Association Limited, part of the PfP Group, was selected by the Twechar Regeneration Group as the preferred Housing Association to be appointed to own and manage the village's new rented accommodation.

(JM)