A LARGE extension to Cuningar Loop Woodland Park, beside the Clyde, between Rutherglen and Dalmarnock, has received planning approval.

The nine-hectare development by regeneration initiative Clyde Gateway includes open space, a path network, woodland planting, land regrading, a boardwalk and street furniture plus more car parking.

The overall Cuningar Loop — a meander of the River Clyde — extends to approximately 27 hectares.

Development of the woodland park, which is located off Downiebrae Road, was split into two phases with phase one approved in 2013.

The site for phase two mainly comprises trees, bushes and scrub vegetation.

A report by South Lanarkshire planners states: “The proposal is intended to build on the success of the existing woodland park by improving access into an area of woodland and creating biodiversity improvements.

“It is considered that the development of this section of Cuningar Loop, through the formation of education areas, play areas, path networks, etc, would make an important contribution to the quality of life in the area and help to further improve the health and wellbeing of local residents and visitors to the park.

“As per phase one, the existing open space is proposed to be fully retained with some trees being removed to make the improvements to the quality of the park.

“However landscaping proposals for the site will also include replanting, and ecological surveys have been provided to confirm that there would be no adverse impact on European or other protected species.”

Permission was given last year for further attractions within the phase one area of the park, including a community bothy and garden and an elevated walkway with viewing tower.