The one-off investment will result in £1 million being spent on the accelerated refurbishment of Multi Use Games Areas (MUGAs), including those within school estates.

The first schools to get the upgrades will be Hareleeshill Primary School, Lanark Primary School, Robert Smillie Primary School and St Vincent’s Primary School.

Other assets including tennis courts, 5-a-side pitches, features within parks as well as general enhancements such as pathway improvements and new lighting, will also benefit from £2 million of investment.

Initial projects which will benefit have been identified as Bothwell Road Park Bandstand and Overtoun Park Bandstand.

And £1 million will be allocated to support community groups to upgrade outdoor spaces and pitches which will also unlock external funding opportunities and support Community Asset Transfers, including community projects at Eddlewood Park in Hamilton and Raploch in Larkhall.

Executive Director of Community and Enterprise Resources, Kevin Carr, said: “This investment will ensure that more people can enjoy accessible, high-quality facilities within their own communities.

“The investment in refurbishing MUGAs will improve opportunities for sport and play while reducing maintenance issues associated with ageing surfaces.

“The £2 million investment in other assets will make recreational spaces safer and more inclusive, particularly for children, older adults, and those with mobility challenges.

“And we will also be supporting communities to take forward plans they may already have for outdoor spaces and pitches in their local area.”

The investment is part of an almost £40 million funding boost after political groups came together to agree the Budget for People and Place in South Lanarkshire for 2026-27. This includes £12 million to improve roads and the environmental infrastructure across South Lanarkshire.