More than 800 residents, community groups and local businesses gave feedback in a consultation earlier this year on their vision for the area of Stirling city centre, which includes a 34-acre site previously owned by the Ministry of Defence.

The Forthside masterplan and design guide, agreed at a meeting of Stirling Council today, have now been updated to take account of the responses received through the consultation process and incorporates the development of the new Stirling Studios to be created within the former MoD facility.

It outlines the potential of the remaining Forthside development sites including commercial and business opportunities, as well as 300 new homes, active travel routes and improvements to the roads infrastructure.

It also highlights proposals for landscape improvement and the enhancement of existing green spaces, as well as improved access to the River Forth for Stirling residents and visitors.

Stirling Studios will be among the biggest film and television campuses in Scotland and will pave the way for major economic and social benefits in the local area, including the estimated creation of more than 4,000 jobs over 25 years in key film and production roles, as well as other supply services.

Stirling Council recently approved a £6 million procurement contract for building refurbishment at the former MoD site, with the majority to be invested in an existing 160,000 square-foot building, which is expected to become the main hub for the film and television studios.

Stirling Council leader Cllr Margaret Brisley said: “The finalised masterplan sets out how we will deliver on an exciting vision for the redevelopment of Forthside, including the former MoD site. It will lead to significant economic, social and environmental benefits for Stirling and the wider area.

“We are ambitious for this area to become a thriving and sustainable part of the city, incorporating new businesses and commercial partners, as well as housing.

“It will also allow greater access to the River Forth for leisure, with high quality public spaces and enhanced travel routes, including active travel. We want it to become a vibrant community in its own right.

“We are determined to deliver good design which reflects the ambitions of Stirling Council, our residents, businesses and investors.”

The finalised Forthside masterplan and design guide can be viewed under Item 8 in the agenda for today’s full meeting of Stirling Council.

A recording of the council meeting can be found on the Council’s webcast page.