PLANS to expand The Fort shopping complex in Glasgow's Easterhouse and replace the rundown nearby Shandwick Square centre have been given the go-ahead.

The £75million expansion plan, which will create around 500 jobs, will result in a Marks and Spencer store opening in the massive retail park.

The replacement Shandwick Square, on an area of unused land bounded by Connisburgh Road and Auchinlea Road, will provide local shops, offices, car parking and a childcare centre.

Hercules Unit Trust, which owns Glasgow Fort, is behind both schemes, which have both been backed unanimously by councillors.

Phil Goodman, centre manager at Glasgow Fort, said: "We are extremely excited about our expansion plans.

"The announcement comes after much planning and consultation with key stakeholders and we are looking forward to seeing the plans come to life.

"We are committed to driving forward the regeneration of Easterhouse. The ultimate aim for the area is to create an integrated, economically and socially successful town, with a community hub.

"These developments will aesthetically improve the town centre and also provide further employment opportunities for residents, by adding significantly to the status of the area as a prime shopping destination."

Two thirds of the 1400 jobs created at the complex have been secured by local people, who are given support and training, including the chance to work towards a Scottish Vocational Qualification in retail.