A new £200,000 park and ride in Airdrie has been officially opened by North Lanarkshire Council and Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT).

Cairnhill Road Park and Ride provides 40 spaces, including two suitable for wheelchair users, as well as an area for bicycle and motorcycles.

The facility was built as part of the redevelopment of the former Alexandra Primary School, at Broomknoll Street and Cairnhill Road, to create 14 new council homes.

A CCTV system is in place, monitored by Town Centre Activities, along with energy-efficient LED lighting.

“This new facility increases the park and ride capacity at Airdrie station by 33%, making it easier for commuters to use the local train service and reducing congestion on the roads,” said Councillor Michael McPake, Convener of the council’s Environment and Transportation Committee.

“Alongside the new council housing, it has regenerated an area of land close to the town centre and improved local services for residents of Airdrie.”

SPT Vice Chair Alan Moir said: “SPT is delighted to have helped fund this park and ride project in Airdrie that further demonstrates our commitment to delivering more sustainable travel choices for the people of North Lanarkshire. The new park and ride facility will help encourage people to switch to rail and reduce the need to travel by car”.

Underground ducting has been installed at the park and ride to allow electric vehicles charging points to be installed at a later date.