Scottish government announces new plan for derelict land

Some of Scotland’s most long-standing derelict sites will be transformed by the first awards from the new Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme.

More than £5m of investment will be shared among 10 schemes in the first round of the funding, which aims to drive regeneration, enhance the environment and tackle climate change.

Successful projects include the creation of a new riverbed and riverside green space in Barrhead on derelict land which has discouraged visitors from going to the town centre for 25 years, and the development of a growing area for use by community enterprises on part of the abandoned Bellgrove Meat Market site in Glasgow.

The project will also see a cycle park and active travel hub developed on a site in South Lanarkshire, which has been derelict since the 1960s, and the transformation of a derelict site in Easterhouse into a wildlife habitat which will also be used for outdoor education and recreation.

Communities minister, Tom Arthur, said: ‘Derelict sites are often found in disadvantaged areas and can be a blight on communities, holding back development. This new, five year programme is intended to have a transformational impact and I am pleased to see such diverse and innovative projects benefiting from the first awards. They will variously deliver community regeneration, create jobs and help tackle climate change.

‘At the same time as announcing these grants, we are opening the programme to projects seeking funding in 2022-23 and I look forward to building on the momentum generated by today’s investments.’

Chair of the Seven Lochs Partnership, which is behind the project in Easterhouse, Cllr Maureen Burke, added: ‘I’m delighted that funding has been awarded to transform vacant land along Avenue End Road. It will allow the area to be developed as a community greenspace, with a new active travel route, habitat creation and public space.

‘The site is just a few minutes’ walk from five schools, including two for pupils with additional support needs, and the project will help pupils discover and explore nature on their doorstep by creating a safe, accessible outdoor learning space.’

In related news, residents are being asked for their views on plans to protect and enhance the green spaces between the King Alfred Leisure Centre and Hove Lagoon.

Photo by Tom Robertson