Plans to extend Chryston High School and construct a new community hub in Coatbridge's  Sikeside have gained council approval.

The green light was given on August 15 at a council planning committee meeting with work scheduled to commence in early 2025 for both projects.

The school's extension aims to accommodate an additional 500 students, reflecting the increasing need from growing housing developments in the vicinity.

Facilities including general classrooms, outdoor learning areas, sports facilities and an Early Years Centre are proposed as part of the project.

(Image: North Lanarkshire Council supplied images)

(Image: North Lanarkshire Council supplied images)

Chryston High's existing building will also be internally remodelled, with initial site preparation including fencing due to start in the coming weeks.

The addition to the school will serve a dual purpose of not only overcoming capacity issues but also boosting community amenities.

St Stephen's Community Hub, on the other hand, promises a new primary school, a Language and Communication Support Centre, a nursery class, and vast community and sports facilities.

With capacity for 483 children, the hub is set to be located on the combined site of the now-demolished Sikeside Primary School and the existing St Stephen's Primary.

The completed site will include considerable landscaping efforts and new car parking areas, all contributing towards a favourable transformation for the local community.

Councillor Michael McBride, convener of education, welcomed the approval of the projects, and said: "These developments are crucial for our growing communities. The expansion at Chryston High School will provide much-needed capacity for pupils and staff. At the same time, the St Stephen's Community Hub will serve as a valued resource for the wider community.

"We are committed to ensuring that our new town and community hubs provide first-class facilities for our residents both now and in the future."