Schoolchildren take a close look at significant progress on development site
Published 13 March 2026
A group of schoolchildren were left fascinated as they saw first-hand the significant progress which is being made as part of a major infrastructure and commercial development at Bowling.
The 12 pupils from St Patrick’s Primary in Dumbarton got a close-up look at the former site as they were shown around by contractors Story who have been undertaking work on behalf of Network Rail.
The site is being transformed to unlock the potential of mixed-use development with, for example, storage, distribution, industrial, business and office space. The project is being led by West Dunbartonshire Council as part of the Glasgow City Region City Deal which is part-funded by both UK and Scottish Governments.
The children enjoyed a day of hands-on learning, met with the project team, learned about the construction of the railway underbridge and took part in a STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) workshop involving a bridge-building task of their own.
The pupils were enthralled to see the works taking place so close to home and asked engaging and meaningful questions.
In addition, a group of Foundation Apprentices from across West Dunbartonshire’s five high schools, studying Construction and Civil Engineering subjects, have been on site to find out more.
There has been significant progress within the area over recent months including a new railway bridge being built on site and moved into position meanwhile a much-welcomed alternative route to the A82 is starting to take shape.
The project includes junction, road and active travel improvements connecting to the site, most notably the addition of a 1.95km spine road, providing an additional route in and out of Dumbarton. The development also includes a phased implementation of raised platforms ready for development of future buildings on the site.
Of the 150-acre area, 47 acres are planned for development, with green network and green infrastructure enhancements including a waterfront pedestrian and cycle path being developed.
Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, Councillor David McBride, said: “The beauty of this site is that it is in a prominent position on the entrance to Dumbarton and, therefore, people who use the A82 will have been able to see first-hand the impressive work which is being undertaken.
“To get the bridge in situ just after Christmas was a significant milestone with further work continuing on developing the spine road which will provide an alternative route into Dumbarton, freeing up capacity on the A82.
“It’s great that we are also getting local youngsters on site for a look around and allowing them to take part in some practical activities. It’s vital to develop the workforce for the future and encourage their interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.”
Vice Convener of Infrastructure, Regeneration and Economic Development, Councillor Lawrence O’Neill added: “Great strides have been taken on this important project which has been long in the planning. Once completed, this huge site will be opened up, offering excellent commercial opportunities, further boosting West Dunbartonshire as a location for business and enterprise.
“First class transport links and additional, scenic cycle routes are just some of the benefits from this large-scale project and I look forward to continued progress in the coming months.”
Balfour Beatty was awarded the contract and began work early in 2025.
Anyone interested in finding out more about the project can visit Glasgow City Deal, Exxon Site, Bowling | West Dunbartonshire Council where readers can view quarterly newsletters as well as updated information on traffic management around the site.