An ambitious masterplan for Hamilton town centre has taken a big step forward.

South Lanarkshire Council (SLC) has said the masterplan for the town can now 'move to the design stage'.

The local authority revealed councillors have now agreed on a contribution of £100,000 from the Common Good Fund (CGF) to enable detailed plans to progress.

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According to the council, the cash boost will ensure a project at the relevant planning stage - as required by both the UK and Scottish Governments - for applications to national funding programmes to be made.

The masterplan is aiming to 'radically transform' the area's town centre.

It will include the repurposing of some areas, the introduction of residential properties and new retail opportunities. 

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At a meeting of the Finance and Corporate Resource Committee on May 21, members approved the request for cash, from the £495,000 fund currently held by the council.

Councillor Lesley McDonald, Chair of the committee said: “A report on the Hamilton Town Centre Masterplan was presented to the Executive Committee in February, setting the strategic priorities and investment for the town centre for at least the next 15 years. 

“To meet these aims, pursue all opportunities for Government funding, and compete with other local authorities, developed plans for projects incorporated within the Masterplan need to be in place.

“I am delighted that colleagues on the committee have agreed to the allocation of Common Good Funding to secure the future of Hamilton town centre, and very much look forward to seeing the detailed plans evolve.”