THE radical overhaul of Cumbernauld town centre will breathe new life into the area.

Even the town's most devoted fans know it was a blot on the landscape for years.

But the modern mall which is replacing it should change its image as the most dismal town in Scotland.

It will also challenge other shopping centres such as the soon-to-open Silverburn Centre in Glasgow, Braehead and even places like Livingston.

City centre shops in Glasgow are well-placed to see off the competition because of their quality and range.

But city retailers and council leaders must not be complacent or they will lose business in this highly competitive sector.

Cumbernauld's new centre will offer a variety of shops which will provide a reason for visiting it rather than avoiding it. Sell-off must be questioned

EAST Renfrewshire Council needs to have a close look at plans to sell off tennis courts in Stamperland.

Luxury housing is not in short supply but green spaces in urban areas are increasingly under threat.

Assurances by the owners, Stamperland Residents' Association, that the proceeds from any sale will be reinvested in the community are welcome.

But a tough line is needed from the council which has already shown its willingness to preserve the amenity when it offered cash support in 2004.

Surely some sort of sports facility run with or by the council would be a better option than selling the site to developers?