The ground, at Stane Gardens in Shotts, was fenced off after contamination was discovered by North Lanarkshire Council in February 2011.

There were fears that the clean-up bill could exceed £4 million, but the figure will be closer to £1.4m.

Contaminants found at the site were consistent with it having previously been the location of an iron works and a tar factory.

The council has agreed a programme of work with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency to clean up the site.

As well as removing topsoil, which is expected to be completed by March, a new reed bed and run-off will be created to alleviate any flooding issues.

The second part of the remediation – to be funded jointly by the council and SEPA – will see South Calder River, which runs via a culvert beneath the site, reinstated above ground to provide a water feature for Stane Gardens.

The final design for the site will include riverside walkways.

stef.lach@ heraldandtimes.co.uk