PLANS to build a £2.5million nursery and transform a derelict school in the west of Glasgow have been welcomed by the community.

One proposal is to build an early years' centre with around 60 places in the grounds of Knightswood Primary, in Knightscliffe Avenue.

The second aims to turn the former Temple Primary, in nearby Spencer Street, into a private nursery for around 100 children.

Both moves to boost childcare facilities in Knightswood have been praised by locals.

Drumchapel/Anniesland councillor Jonathan Findlay said: "The demographic has changed in Knightswood in the last few years.

"There are a lot more families with young children who really need these facilities.

"Knightswood Primary is one of the biggest schools in the city so there is a demand for schools as well as nurs-ery and childcare spaces.

"I fully support the plans to address the needs of families in the area."

The new Rowena Early Years Centre at Knights-wood Primary will include a large play area, landscaping and parking space.

"If the plans get the green light, a Gaelic classroom will be on offer for youngsters.

The move is part of a multi-million project by the council to upgrade education facilities.

Once the new facility is opened, the current nursery at the site of Knightswood Primary will be used for older pupils at the school.

Councillor Stephen Curran, executive member for education and young people said: "Last year we announced an investment of £250m to rebuild or refurbish every remaining primary, nursery or ASL school as part of our 4Rs strategy.

"Our sole aim is to educate our children in buildings fit for purpose and I'm delighted with the plans for the new Rowena Early Years centre in the grounds of Knightswood Primary.

"The 4Rs strategy will not only benefit children and schools across Glasgow, this major capital investment will also provide a significant boost to the local economy.

"Education and jobs are both top priorities of this council and we will deliver on them."

Meanwhile, it is hoped that Temple Primary, will be reinvented as a childcare centre by Little Me Nursery.

The childcare provide which already has a centre in Maryhill, has submitted proposals to the planning committee to upgrade the former school.

Little Me Nursery works in partnership with the council to provide mandat-ory pre-school education.

Mr Findlay's former election agent, Thomas O'Connor, attended Temple Primary School in the late 1940s, and was chairman of the local community council and resident's association for several years. He died last year, aged 76.

Councillor Findlay added "I am sure Tommy would have been absolutely delighted that his old school was being used once again to educate and care for young children."

No one from Little Me Nursery was available to comment.

rachel.loxton@eveningtimes.co.uk