Major works to upgrade the hockey pitch at the On-X Linwood could begin next month – if a deal is given the green light this week.

A contract to replace the existing surface at the sports centre will go before Renfrewshire Council’s finance, resources and customer services policy board on Thursday.

If approved, the agreement – which could prove to be worth more than £545,000 – will see Allsports Construction and Maintenance take on the project at the facility in Brediland Road.

Councillor Robert Innes, an SNP representative for Houston, Crosslee and Linwood, said: “I’m really happy to see this investment in the hockey pitch at the On-X in Linwood.

“Renfrewshire Council is committed to improving our sports facilities. Along with the recent works done on the running track, it is welcome news for the local area.”

A report to the board explained the investment would support teams such as Paisley’s Kelburne Hockey Club (KHC).

It said: “The current pitch is only suitable for lower-level hockey leagues and, therefore, KHC is no longer able to train and play senior team matches in Renfrewshire and are instead based at Glasgow Green.

“The council is keen to attract KHC, a very successful club, back to Renfrewshire. KHC is the only club in Renfrewshire with a children’s development section, which currently loses out on promising young local talent if they cannot travel to Glasgow for training.

“This contract will replace the existing pitch with a system capable of meeting Federation for International Hockey (FIH) standards.

“The successful contractor will be required to uplift the existing hockey pitch carpet and underlay and replace with new pitch and carpet system.

“There is also a requirement to replace the floodlighting with LED bulbs.”

If rubber-stamped, works are expected to begin on July 15 and finish by October 4. However, this would be confirmed in the council’s letter of acceptance.

Early this year, a contract for works to replace the running track at the On-X was approved by the board.

Councillor Innes, a member of the board, added: “The recent improvements to the running track in Linwood support Kilbarchan Amatuer Athletic Club, catering for our athletes of the future.

“This investment in the hockey pitch can have the same outcome for our young people and our local hockey teams.

“Linwood is equipping itself to produce the next generation of Renfrewshire sporting heroes.”