The final touches to Clydebank’s new £21 million health and care centre have been made with the installation of art celebrating the region’s heritage.

The modern new building opened its doors in February and an increased number of Bankies have been able to visit over the last few months as Covid restrictions eased.

And now those who find themselves using one of the six practices housed at the Queen’s Quay site will be able to experience a glimpse into the town’s natural landscapes and industrial past through the medium of the artwork featured inside and outside of the centre.

Jackie Sands, Health Improvement Senior for Arts and Health at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, supported the Health and Social Care Partnership’s arts and environment strategy group with the commissioning of the integrated works.

She said: “We wanted to create an environment that is welcoming, therapeutic and connected to its unique locality and community.

“Clydebank was a key player in the ‘workshop of the world’ during the era of heavy industry. It developed a reputation across the world for its creativity and skill and as a benchmark of design quality known as ‘Clydebuilt’.

“Skill and creativity are central to the town’s history and heritage.

“We wanted to celebrate that within the art and design approach for the centre, telling the story of a thriving community, located in a beautiful part of the world and the people who make up its past, present and future.”

The display references the women who traced the drawings made by draughtsmen building ships, the Bankie Trek that leads from the town to the hills and the area’s post-industrial recovery.

And the finished art can be seen on the external wrought iron gates, the reception desk and in the framed designs for the health centre waiting areas.

Liz Kerr, Business Manager at West Dunbartonshire Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “It has been a great experience collaborating with the arts team.

“We are delighted to incorporate the poignant stories of "old" Clydebank and bring them to life in a modern way within our state-of-the-art building. The colour palettes used also give a nod to the GP practice names which I and my colleagues appreciate.

“Our glass corridors allow staff and visitors passing through the building the opportunity to see colour and art looking across the courtyard. It really is the finishing touch to the building.

“Whilst my priority has always been functionality, I have always recognised the impact that our art will have on the mood and wellbeing of those visiting the centre. I particularly enjoyed taking part in the workshops and involving our own staff in the design process of the manifestations. It gives the team a sense of ownership and pride in their workplace.”