One of the key decisions the board agreed at the meeting, at Low Parks Museum, was to undertake a town-wide public consultation to take place in August and September.

Residents, businesses, community groups, students, tourists and those who work in the town will be invited to help shape the 10-year vision and investment plan to transform Hamilton Town Centre.

The 11 board members are Councillors Davie McLachlan and Colin Dewar, local residents Chioma Gregory, Ian Robertson and Alasdair Irvine, Catriona Mason of Seniors Together, Gillian McCahon of Hamilton Information Project for Youth (HIPY), Tracey Campbell-Hynd, local business owner and President of Lanarkshire Chamber of Commerce, Malcolm Thomas-Harley of Hamilton Business Improvement District, Martin Cryans from South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture and Alison Brown, South Lanarkshire Council’s Head of Enterprise and Sustainable Development.

The Board also comprises the Chair, Ronnie Smith, Imogen Walker MP and Alex Kerr MSP, giving a total board composition of 14 members.

Chair Ronnie Smith said: “While we are of course very appreciative of the council’s support, it’s important to highlight that the Pride in Place Programme is community-led – local people will decide how the money is spent.

“The £20million Pride in Place investment over 10 years is targeted at Hamilton Town Centre in order to uplift the area for all of the residents in the surrounding communities – a stronger centre will benefit the whole town.”

Imogen Walker, MP for Hamilton and Clyde Valley, said: “I promised to bring investment back into Hamilton Town Centre and, with £20million from the UK Government, we are making that happen. Now it’s over to the people of Hamilton and our brilliant Board to make sure every penny is spent where it will make the most difference.

“There are lots of ways to make sure your voice is heard, and the consultation this summer will be really important. Whether you live, work, study or run a business in Hamilton, we want to hear from you. Your ideas and experiences will help create a town centre that people are proud of, supports local businesses and works for the whole community for years to come.”

Alison Brown, South Lanarkshire Council’s Head of Enterprise and Sustainable Development, said: “The council is delighted to help and support the Pride in Place investment, which will have a significant impact on improving Hamilton Town Centre.”

Pride in Place is a UK Government programme designed to support the regeneration of the most in-need communities across the UK, delivering long-term funding and support over a 10-year period.

It is guided by three strategic objectives:

• Create Thriving Places – vibrant neighbourhoods and communities with busy high streets and a good range of local amenities, and public spaces the town is proud of
• Build Stronger Communities – strong relationships and a collective sense of belonging that bring people together, build cohesion and resilience, and help Hamilton feel connected and safe
• Empower People to Take Back Control – real power for local people to shape the decisions about their own area through a community-led model of delivery

Learn more at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk/pride-in-place-hamilton