Riverside pylon collapse begins

Renfrewshire councillors oversee the pylon being dismantled

Work to dismantle seven pylons at the Renfrew riverside and replace them with underground cabling has begun.

The collapse of the first tower was triggered by Renfrewshire Council leader Derek Mackay.

The project, which will cost £4.5m, is one of Scotland's largest over-to-underground initiatives in recent years.

Those behind the plans say they will bring significant benefits to Renfrew and Braehead.

Mr Mackay said: "The removal of the pylons is another major step forward in the on-going development of Braehead and Renfrew riverside.

"Residents, businesses and visitors will all notice a significant improvement to the local environment."

The project is being funded by Capital Shopping Centres, the owners of Braehead.

Senior development manager Michael Finnegan said: "This is an exciting day for everyone involved with Renfrew riverside, in particular existing residents in Renfrew and at Ferry Village, and future residents.

"We are all delighted to see the pylons being removed and replaced by underground cabling, which will be a dramatic improvement to the visual amenity of the entire area."