A PROGRAMME of complex engineering works at Dumbarton Harbour have given waterfront access for the first time in more than a century.

The site at the old quay on the River Leven has been brought back to life and will offer new homes for residents to enjoy views of the river and beyond.

Engineers from Will Rudd Davidson (Edinburgh) undertook the challenging work on the quayside site of the former Ballantine Whisky Distillery, which included removing old foundations and slipways from its original use as shipyard in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Upgrades to the quay walls and dry dock revetments were also undertaken.

The new accessible site has been developed by Cullross to provide 150 new high-quality affordable homes to rent for Dunbritton Housing Association and 45 new homes for West Dunbartonshire Council, as well as providing a new head office for the association.

Will Rudd Davidson (Edinburgh) director, Craig Milne, said: “This project is an exemplar of how a derelict site can be remediated and brought back to life.

“In addition to the quay wall improvements, extensive groundworks were undertaken to remove the contamination, and piled foundations with ground beams were installed in preparation for the main residential development. “The site delivers a major improvement to the infrastructure of Dumbarton, with a new walkway and cycle path connecting the development with the town centre.” Emma Garry, development consultant for Cullross, added: “This was a very challenging housing project due to the previous uses and location of the site. The engineering aspect of this project was key to its success.

“The extensive works below the ground and along the river edge were designed by Will Rudd Davidson who had the difficult job of balancing the engineering challenges with the financial constraints of developing affordable homes.

“Cullross are delighted with the final development.”