A £700k spending package on arts, leisure and community improvements was approved today at meeting of Policy and Resources today (1 June) that will benefit residents across the Falkirk Council area.

A diverse range of projects have been selected following a review, based on priority for improvements.

Between Culture and Leisure, a total of £340k will be spent on improvements including a £60,000 boost for ongoing work at Bo'ness Recreation Centre; £18k for upgrading of the courts at Laurieston Tennis Club and; a £84k upgrade to Grangemouth Sports Complex (for improved disabled access and visitor experience).

Historic Callender house will become more energy efficient with the completion of a new energy use system in the building (cost £60k) and, following relocation of the Park Gallery to the House, a new heritage based exhibitions space will be created and a refresh of information panels and displays will be carried out (£60k).

The area's open spaces and parks will also benefit from the spending announcement with an £85k upgrade to play area facilities at four different locations as well as £85k worth of drainage improvements to pitches at three locations.

Dollar Park in Falkirk will see a £30k upgrade to the paths, bedding areas and signage as will Zetland Park in Grangemouth. Footpath upgrades for Kinneil Estate in Bo'ness and Callendar Park in Falkirk are also scheduled at a cost of £25k.

Cllr Craig Martin, Convener of Policy and Resources Committee said: ‘Many of these facilities and amenities are very popular and well used by local residents and visitors alike.  It is important that we continue to improve them and encourage new users to come forward.

‘At a time of difficult economic choices to be made by Falkirk Council, we're pleased to be able to invest some significant funding into amenities for our residents and that they are what our customers really want.'

Community benefits have also been highlighted in the spend with a £58k improvement at Westquarter Primary School for the Westquarter Community Project; £25k spent on improved sports changing facilities at Bonnybridge Communtiy Centre and upgraded toilet facilities for Camelon Community Project at a cost of £25k.