Work on a major project to breathe new life into the hockey pitch at the On-X Linwood is set to begin next month after a contract was given the green light.

A deal to upgrade the existing surface at the sports centre in Brediland Road was approved by Renfrewshire Council’s finance resources and policy board on Thursday.

The agreement – which could prove to be worth just over £545,000 – will see Allsports Construction and Maintenance take on the job at the facility.

Councillor Alison-Ann Dowling, Labour representative for Houston, Crosslee and Linwood, said at the meeting: “I’m very happy to support this contract for the refurb of the hockey pitch at Linwood On-X.

“It’s really going to help to improve the external sports facilities in the area.”

A report to the board explained the investment will support teams in Renfrewshire, such as Paisley’s Kelburne Hockey Club (KHC), and further sport development.

It added: “The current pitch is only suitable for lower-level hockey leagues and, therefore, KHC is no longer able to train and play senior team matches in Renfrewshire and are instead based at Glasgow Green.

“The council is keen to attract KHC, a very successful club, back to Renfrewshire. KHC is the only club in Renfrewshire with a children’s development section, which currently loses out on promising young local talent if they cannot travel to Glasgow for training.

“This contract will replace the existing pitch with a system capable of meeting Federation for International Hockey (FIH) standards.”

Councillor Ann-Dowling, who is also the Labour group’s finance spokesperson, added: “I particularly welcome the aim expressed…that the upgraded pitch is hopefully going to attract back Kelburne Hockey Club, which is the only club with a children’s development section.

“I wish that aim well and hope to see that facility being well-used.”

Works are expected to begin on July 15 and be complete by October 4, however, this will be confirmed in the council’s letter of acceptance.