Approval has been granted for 'Supporting Our Community' to lease land at Comely Bank in Hamilton.
The community group has secured a 15-year lease for the land which was approved at the Housing and Technical Resources Committee on December 8.
SOC aims to use it for a community garden and a food growing project.
The group has experienced increased interest from locals and hope the garden will provide opportunities for community engagement, reduce isolation and allow people to develop new skills and improve health and wellbeing.
Mark Rouse, project coordinator, said “We have spoken with people from across the community and they were excited about the prospect of this empty and unloved piece of waste ground being changed into something that everyone can be proud of.
“All of our projects and programmes are decided through community engagement. We try our best to deliver something for everyone. We encourage those who may be isolated, lonely or are struggling with their health and wellbeing to join us and get involved in this new venture.”
The land, which is located in Hillhouse in Hamilton, has been vacant for around five years and the community group will rent it for £1 per year.
SOC is exploring funding options for the initial set up of the garden but already has tools and equipment needed for daily maintenance.
Councillor Allan Falconer for Hamilton West and Earnock praised the work of the group.
He said: “SOC are one of the half a dozen community groups in the Hillhouse area, who have supported the community, especially during the pandemic.
“I’d also like to congratulate them on their new meaningful proper consultation with this process, unlike some other community asset transfer applications.”
SOC is an award-winning charity based in Hamilton, it was established in 2019 to advance the provision of recreational facilities.
The group, who currently work from a hub and workshop at 19a Comely Bank offer a range of services for the community, including free coffee mornings, family nights, a youth club, an arts and crafts course and even guitar lessons.