PLANS for a new £9 million primary school in Larkhall have been given the green light.

Councillors approved the proposals for Machanhill Primary School at a meeting of South Lanarkshire Council's planning committee.

The existing primary school and nursery will be demolished and replaced by a new building.

Pupils will be decanted to the former Glengowan Primary School building while the work is taking place.

Chairman of South Lanarkshire Council's Planning Committee, Councillor Hugh Dunsmuir, said: "Our primary schools modernisation programme is continuing to deliver first-class facilities for our pupils and teachers across South Lanarkshire.

"I am sure that everyone within the Machanhill primary school community is excited by the news."

CUMBERNAULD Environmental Society held a conference in Cumbernauld College with the aim of driving forward positive change in the town centre.

The conference brought together some key stakeholders who can play an important part in any work.

Cumbernauld and Antonine shopping centre managers, as well as North Lanarkshire Council representatives, were there.

Three presentations showed what work was taking place, what could be done with the existing town centre structure, and what could be done to improve the town centre.

A number of suggestions were aired, including looking at entertainment and leisure, creating more of an evening economy and increasing footfall during quieter periods.

A follow-up event is being planned.

FRIENDS of Cambuslang Park has used a lottery windfall to create a bog garden.

The group received £3469 from the People's Postcode Trust, a grant-giving charity funded by players of the People's Postcode Lottery, and £2400 from Pride of Place.

The bog garden was built in the area close to the Cairns Road entrance, which is marred by poor drainage. The project will improve the appearance of the park.

School groups and local visitors of all ages will now be able to enjoy the plants and wildlife on offer and learn about biodiversity for many years to come.

BLANTYRE Soccer Academy is looking for new players for its disability football club.

Players of all abilities aged between five and 16 are welcome.

Parents or carers must be there if the player requires individual or specialised assistance.

A spokesman said: "Our sessions are conducted by suitably qualified coaches who will deliver a programme of practices that ensures players are challenged, while having fun."

The first session takes place at Blantyre Leisure Centre on March 3. To register, call 07930 640992.