DESIGNS for a new community hub and nursery in north Glasgow have been approved by city planners.

The facility, which will also have an outdoor play area, will be on the site of the former Glasgow School for the Deaf in Milton, fronting Shapinsay Street. The land has lain vacant and derelict since the 1990s.

The building will replace Scaraway Nursery School and provide a new home for the North United Communities organisation.

The nursery will have capacity for 95 full-time places, featuring four main playrooms, a general-purpose area/dining space and various ancillary rooms including offices and kitchen.

Officials stated in their decision report that the development would “contribute to a healthy and pleasant local community”, with the building designed to be adapted to additional any future needs.

They added: “The proposal would use a high quality facing brick as the dominant material finish, which would enhance the character and townscape quality of the surrounding area.

“The proposed materials are suitably robust and durable and would be capable of retaining their appearance over time and in the Glasgow climate.”

North United Communities offers support and a welcoming environment where people can come together to socialise, collaborate and acquire knowledge.

It will be the main tenant within the community section of the facility and will be provided with office space, general purpose rooms as well use of combined facilities such as a large hall and kitchen space.

A statement included with the application stated: “At the heart of the project, Glasgow City Council wish to create an effective educational environment.

“The project vision is to deliver an exemplar facility for the community of Milton. The building should aspire to become the new heart of the community.

“The spaces within should provide a stimulating and supportive environment which caters for the needs of both groups and individuals.”