A Clydebank charity has signed the lease on a new property which they hope will "benefit the community".

The Antonine Trust, which was formed in 1980, has taken over Glenhead Community Centre on Duntiglennan Road in the town.

The deal was agreed last month after over two years of negotiations with West Dunbartonshire Council.

Kevin Carlin, general manager of Antonine Sports Centre, opened up on the importance of the project.

He said: "The role of the charity has always been to serve the locals and this latest move will help us to continue to do that.

"The sports centre will function as normal while Glenhead Community Centre is renovated.

"Plans have been in the works to take over the building since early 2022 when we found out it was at risk of closure so we are delighted to get the deal done.

"We do not have an opening date yet but hope to be able to provide clarity in the near future.

"Everything is still in the early stages but community feedback so far has been to turn it into an indoor children's play facility, healthy cafe or community nursery.

"Nothing has been confirmed yet, though, as we have only recently signed the lease. 

"The hard work now begins to raise funds to refurbish the facility and get it reopened.

"We are keen to work with local businesses to help get things off the ground."

Douglas McAllister, MP for West Dunbartonshire, echoed Kevin's sentiments.

He said: "This is great news for the community of Duntocher and the Antonine Sports Centre, it is a perfect solution.

"The Glenhead Centre is underused and in a state of disrepair.

"I am very excited to hear of their plans which will include a nursery, a soft play area and a heath café.

"The Glenhead Centre will be open to the community seven days a week, and crucially it will retain Duntocher Library, run by West Dunbartonshire Library services.

"I have every confidence that Kevin and his staff will make a great success of the project which will in turn secure the future of our much loved local sports centre.

"The deal will also see urgent repairs completed to the building and the car park resurfaced."

Lawrence O'Neill, local councillor for the area, added: "I am absolutely delighted to see that the Antonine Trust have completed the transfer of the Glenhead Centre and look forward to working with them over the coming years and their continued commitment to Duntocher and beyond. 

"I thank them for their perseverance and support and look forward to working with them to make a success of their mission to keep and preserve vital services locally."