Main Page | See live article | Alphabetical index

Vale of Leven

The Vale of Leven is an area of Scotland in West Dunbartonshire concentrated around the River Leven, which flows from Loch Lomond to the River Clyde. The area is situated just a few miles north of the town of Dumbarton and contains various communities tied into one conurbation.

The largest of these communities is the town of Alexandria, which sits on the Western bank of the Leven. Alexandria is connected to Renton in the South and to Balloch in the North. Across the river from Alexandria is Bonhill which is connected to Jamestown to the North.

The area is traditionally industrial, but with the decline of manufacturing in Scotland has had to look to new areas for employment. The industrial past of the area gave it a radical reputation, with Communism and Socialism being popular political philosiphies in particular. In modern years the Scottish National Party has performed quite well in the area.

The areas name lends itself to Alexandria's local football club, Vale of Leven FC and secondary school, Vale of Leven Academy.