The transformation of Hampden Stadium in Scotland has reached a landmark, as the raising of the playing surface to accommodate a competition-standard running track has been completed.

Scotland's National Stadium will act as the centrepiece of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games later this year, hosting 48 Athletics events over seven days.

To meet IAAF standards for international competition, a revolutionary solution has raised the stadium surface by almost two metres.

A full infield complete with freshly-covered grass now sits on a temporary deck, made up of 1,200 base panels supported by over 6,000 structural steel stilts. The recognisable red running track surface will be laid shortly.

It is the first time the technology has been used on such scale to deliver a world-class athletics event and the work – carried out by Paisley-based Malcolm Construction – has been a closely guarded secret since it began back in December.

David Grevemberg, chief executive of Glasgow 2014, said: "Both of these crucial Games venues are stunning in look, revolutionary in design and the embodiment of the athlete centred, sports focused approach that we've taken to delivering the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games.

"The solution we're implementing to transform Hampden is a world-first on such a scale and a fantastic model for future events."