Villagers to get their fizz back

The Lochwinnoch residents used Right to Buy legislation

Villagers in Renfrewshire have been given the go-ahead to buy land and property on the site of an old lemonade factory.

Ministers approved an application by the Lochwinnoch Community Buyout Group to purchase the Struthers factory, although the group needs to raise £1m.

Plans include restoring the original building to provide a museum, leisure facilities and wildlife habitat.

The site operated for almost 100 years and made Krystal Klear soft drinks.

LCBG made four applications under the Community Right to Buy in the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003.

'Greater power'

The green light was given by Environment Minister Michael Russell.

"Giving communities control over the way their land is managed gives them greater power to shape their own futures and provides real rights and opportunities to help them realise their ambitions," he said.

"It is now for the community body to ensure that the necessary steps are taken to conclude the transfer and take advantage of the opportunity which the act provides.

"However I recognise the significant challenges which lie ahead for the community in raising the necessary funding to complete the purchase, and I wish them every success with this venture."