3rd November 2009
TULLIS STREET MEMORIAL GARDENS OPEN TO GREAT ACCLAIM
It was just a simple ribbon-cutting ceremony carried out jointly by a Glasgow City Councillor and residents of a local care home, but its significance and importance will be felt for many years to come.
The official opening on 22nd October of the Tullis Street Memorial Garden in Bridgeton by Councillor George Redmond and residents of the Carmichael Care Home in Landressy Place was important for the local community and momentous for Clyde Gateway as it marked the completion of the first project to be designed and delivered by Scotland’s biggest Urban Regeneration Company (URC).
Delivered on time and on budget by the Glasgow-based RJ McLeod, this historical piece of ground in Bridgeton, which was used as a cemetery in the 17th and 18th centuries has been transformed into a beautiful and peaceful Memorial Garden.
Seemingly hidden but just 250 yards from the landmark Bridgeton Cross, the land between Tullis Street and Landressy Place closed as a burial place in 1870, with the bodies being exhumed not long after. Over the past 139 years, it has been retained as open space and used as a walking route to and from Bridgeton Cross, but in recent times it had become unkempt and unsafe for many local residents, particularly the elderly.
The improvements carried out by Clyde Gateway, at a cost of £315,000, have seen the removal of fencing, the replacement of some old trees, landscaping. lighting and planting which have all made the area immediately more attractive and secure. In addition, repairs to the boundary walls and a widened entrance have incorporated four works of art.
Councillor George Redmond, who is also a Board Member at Clyde Gateway said “Residents have been looking for improvements at Tullis Street for a very long time. The team at Clyde Gateway has gained a lot of goodwill from the local community by listening to them and acting promptly.
"I’m delighted with what has been unveiled today. It’s a fantastic upgrade that manages to look modern and yet be totally sympathetic to the history and past use of the ground as a burial space. I’m particularly pleased to see the very high quality of landscaping and planting, and there’s no argument that the new artworks will capture everyone’s imagination."
The artworks consist of a piece of sculpture that has been placed in what was a former bricked-up window in the boundary wall along with three new pillars – one carved from sandstone and the other two manufactured from steel. Between them, they tell the story of the cemetery and its significance to the Bridgeton area.”
Alison Brown has led the project on behalf of Clyde Gateway. She said “Not long after Clyde Gateway was established, local residents told us that Tullis Street should be an early priority. We listened to what they had to say and we also asked for their views as we started to work up a design for the Memorial Gardens.
“The end result is just the first of numerous physical changes that we will deliver over the next 20 years. All of us at Clyde Gateway hope that local residents, having been given an idea of how much we like to directly involve them in these sort of projects. will want to get fully involved in our ongoing work and activities.”
The Tullis Street Memorial Garden has opened just as the second major environmental improvement works in the area were about to go on site with a £1.1m redevelopment of Bridgeton Cross, including a full restoration of the A-listed Umbrella scheduled to begin on Monday 26th October.
1st November 2009
ANNUAL PUBLIC MEETING PROVES TO BE A SUCCESS
34 local residents and business owners defied atrocious weather conditions to come along to the first ever Clyde Gateway URC Annual Public Meeting on the evening of Thursday 29th October at the Bridgeton Community Learning Campus In Dale Street. The event saw Robert Crawford and Ian Manson, Chairman and Chief Executive respectively of Clyde Gateway, give an overview of the progress made since the formation of the URC in December 2007. The Public Meeting also saw the official launch of the Annual Report for 2008/09.
There was a lively Q&A session following Ian's presentation, with residents keen to find out the views of Clyde Gateway on a wide range of issues it had responsibilty for, but also asking that the URC to make representations to its partners and other organisations on matters such as transport, housing and the environment.
The Annual Public Meeting came on top of 51 people attending an exhibition held earlier in the day, at the same venue, between 10.30 and 4.30pm during which they had they had a chance to look at a display highlighting some of the significant achievements made thus far by Clyde Gateway, as well as pick up information on other key projects such as the M74 and the Commonwealth Games, while members of the Clyde Gateway staff were also on hand to answer questions and discuss issues.
Ian Manson said "It was a great turnout over the course of the whole day and it is very reassuring to find that so many people are interested to hear about what we are doing and our plans over the next 20 years across the Bridgeton, Dalmarnock, Rutherglen and Shawfield communities. We want to get our message out to as many people as possible, and part of this will involve repeating the exhibition at other venues within our communities over the coming months."
Copies of the Annual Report are available on request from the Clyde Gateway offices or by calling Jim Clark on 0141 276 1576. Plans are in hand to make braille and taped copies for those with visual impairments.
1st October 2009
LANDMARK DAY FOR BRIDGETON CROSS
The work on the £1m plus investment for Bridgeton Cross, one of Glasgow’s most famous and historic landmarks, began on Monday 26th October.
Clyde Gateway has awarded A £1.1m contract to Land Engineering, one of the biggest Scottish firms involved in public realm improvement works, which will the firm on-site over a nine-month period, the end of which will see the actual Cross completely transformed, while new and improved pavements will be provided on James Street, Landressy Street and part of London Road.
The changes have come on the back of extensive consultation, including a three-day exhibition in March 2009, and a steering group of local residents and businesses have had a large say in the final designs and improvements. The most noticeable part of the work will see new Caithness and Granite stone paving, similar in look to the pedestrianised areas of Glasgow City Centre, while the Grade ‘A’ listed Bridgeton Shelter and Clock, known locally as ‘The Umbrella’, will be fully restored to the grandeur of its original unveiling in 1875.
The Cross will become more pedestrian-friendly, while some of the improvements include new street furniture such as benches, bins and planters, together with an upgraded CCTV system and bus shelters. There will also be improvements to the existing street lighting while the addition of some new lights will improve visibility and security around the Cross. The existing trees will be removed and replaced, while the long-closed toilets will be infilled and the surrounding railings taken away.
There will also be a memorial to Robert Burns, Scotland’s national bard, in recognition of the historical existence of the Bridgeton Burns Club, one of the oldest in the world formed back in 1870.
Audrey Carlin is the Project Manager at Clyde Gateway and she said “I’m thrilled that we are just about ready to make a start on such an important landmark project. The residents on the Steering Group have been absolutely fantastic over the last few months and this project would never have got off the ground without all of their hard work and effort.
“Clyde Gateway has listened to local views and what we are now going to deliver is a Bridgeton Cross that is high-quality, attractive, safe and central for shoppers, pedestrians and public transport users while improving business for local services and suppliers.”
The use of community benefit clauses within the Contract will ensure that three local residents from within the Clyde Gateway area will be taken on by Land Engineering for the duration of the works. The three workers are currently being recruited on behalf of Clyde Gateway and Land Engineering by the Glasgow East Regeneration Agency (GERA).
Pupils from Dalmarnock and Sacred Heart Primary Schools are getting involved in arts and education projects, with plans to incorporate some of their engraving work into the new pavements.
In addition to Clyde Gateway’s improvements to Bridgeton Cross, a commitment has been given by First Scotrail and Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) for some new signage and general improvements to Bridgeton Station.
Owen Stewart is a long-term resident of Bridgeton and member of the 12-strong Steering Group who is looking forward to the work finally getting underway. He said “Over the years, people in Bridgeton and the wider East End have looked on as other parts of Glasgow have been changed for the better. It’s fantastic to see that its now our turn.
“I’m really pleased to have been able to get involved with Clyde Gateway at such an early stage of their work, and it’s been really interesting watching how projects such as this go from an idea to reality.
“The fact that the Bridgeton Umbrella and the surrounding area are such a priority with Clyde Gateway is definitely giving the whole area a real lift and feel-good factor, and I know I’m not alone in being excited about next summer when the wraps come off and the drawings and images become reality.”
Click on the link below to look at a video showing an artists impression of the restored Bridgeton Umbrella
http://www.clydegateway.com/pages/clyde_gateway_pro_bridgeton.php
31st August 2009
URC STEPS INTO THE RING AND HELPS SAVE FAMOUS BOXING CLUB
The future of one of the best-known and popular boxing gyms in Scotland has been secured thanks to a unique deal involving Clyde Gateway, Glasgow City Council and a local property development company.
The Peter Harrison Boxing Club was established in 1997 and is based at 181 Poplin Street in Dalmarnock. However, with the building on Poplin Street being scheduled for demolition as it lies on the route of the East End Regeneration Route, a new road that will link to the completed M74 Motorway, the Boxing Club faced the situation of having to close down as the costs of relocation were proving to be prohibitive.
A support package worth £300,000 from Clyde Gateway, Glasgow City Council and Spectrum Properties has not only saved the Boxing Club but ensured its long-term future as a not-for-profit community-based organisation within the Dalmarnock area.
The Club will relocate to Meiklejohn House, a three-floor grade B listed building in nearby French Street. The property is being redeveloped by Spectrum, and the plans will now see the top floors converted to a boxing gymnasium with the ground and first floors being fitted out as a top-quality business centre.
Ian Manson, Chief Executive of Clyde Gateway said “I’m pleased that our involvement has helped to bring about a perfect outcome for everyone involved. The Boxing Club is hugely popular as well as being an important part of the fabric of the Dalmarnock area, and securing its long-term future fits in with our hopes and aspirations for social regeneration.
“At the same time, this arrangement has helped ensure a long-term use for one of the few listed buildings in the Clyde Gateway area, and so it also is a significant part of our work to deliver physical regeneration.
The owner and driving force behind the club is Peter Harrison, one of Scotland’s best known boxing coaches. He said, “It’s been a worrying time this past few months as I knew that the Poplin Street premises would need to be vacated by January next year, I’ve been on the lookout for a new location for over a year now, but all the options were either too small, too expensive or were just the wrong location for the gym.
“I’m totally behind the regeneration plans for the area and am delighted to be able to continue to operate in the East End of Glasgow which has such a long and proud association with boxing.”
Mr Harrison added, “Everyone involved in the gym owes a big debt to Clyde Gateway and the City Council, and in particular Councillor George Redmond, for working so hard to make this happen. We’re all looking forward to making the move to Meiklejohn House, and while we’ll miss the old place, there’s no doubt that this move is the best thing that’s happened to the club in years.”
26th August 2009
730 NEW JOBS PROMISE FROM RUTHERGLEN DEVELOPMENT
Up to 730 new jobs could be created on a Rutherglen site lying within the Clyde Gateway boundaries after a £50m development was given outline consent by South Lanarkshire Council.
The proposal would see industrial land on a seven-hectare site between Cambuslang Road and the River Clyde, adjacent to a new junction on the extended M74 Motorway, turned into a leisure complex including a nine-screen cinema, a hotel, restaurants and business space.
The regeneration plan for the site has come from the development company Ashfield Land, and the indications are that work could begin sometime between August 2010 and February 2011, with the aim to have it up and running in advance of the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
Ian Manson, Chief Executive of Clyde Gateway said "This proposal from Ashfield Lane is clear evidence that private sector developers are prepared to make substantial developmnents in the Clyde Gateway area. It's also a sign that the economic spin-offs from the completion of the M74 are beginning to be felt some two yaers ahead of its scheduled opening date, and that confidence in the area is growing."
6th August 2009
GATEWAY STRIKES GOLD
One of the East End’s best-known landmarks, the Olympia Building at Bridgeton Cross, is set to come back into use again, after lying empty for 16 years.
A bid from Clyde Gateway to the Scottish Government’s Town Centres Regeneration Fund has been successful, and the £1.95m award will now help fund the purchase and the other costs involved in converting and developing it for public use.
The building opened in 1991 as the Olympia Theatre of Varieties, but was turned into a cinema by the ABC chain in 1924. Fifty years later it was converted into a bingo hall but was closed and sold to a private developer in 1993. It has lain unused ever since and suffered major fire damage back in 2004.
Ian Manson, the Chief Executive of Clyde Gateway said “We’ve spent a lot of time talking to local residents and businesses, and there was one clear and consistent message – we had to find a way to bring back the Olympia.”
“We are negotiating with the current owners to buy the building, and our plans always envisaged us owning it, refurbishing it and then finding a way to serve the needs of the community and local residents. Today’s award of almost £2m will accelerate these plans and I don’t think I’m exaggerating when I say that this is probably the best news the area has had since the announcement that the Commonwealth Games were coming to Glasgow in 2014.”
Rosie Robertson is the community representative on the Clyde Gateway Board. She said “The plans by Clyde Gateway to redevelop Bridgeton Cross later this year were already exciting enough, but this news about the Olympia is the icing on the cake. The building has always been a reminder of the past, but now it’s going to be a real symbol of the future. If anyone doubted that the East End is really on the way back up, then surely today’s news will convince them once and for all.”
The purchase and refurbishment of the Olympia, a B-listed building in poor condition, could cost up to £9m. Possible future uses include as a sports facility to complement the new NISA and Velodrome being built at London Road/Springfield Road and quality office and ancillary spaces for small local businesses and services, such as a café/restaurant.
The Scottish Government’s £60 million Town Centre Regeneration Fund was opened to applications in April 2009
The Bridgeton Cross bid was one of 48 successful applications, and the £1.95m was among the highest individual awards.
The Minister for Housing and Local Communities, Alex Neil MSP, visited the Clyde Gateway area earlier this year, during which he met a number of local residents and heard personally the hopes for the future use of the Olympia. Mr Neil said “Town centres are key to our economic and social prosperity. They are centres of employment and services for local communities. Our aim is to turn round the fortunes of town centres – help them reach their full potential and support local economies.
“This funding encourages and supports dynamic public and private sector organisations to do that. This is part of our wider economic recovery plan and we will continue to use every lever at our disposal to ensure Scotland gets through the economic downturn in the strongest possible position.”
1st August 2009
GAMES VILLAGE PARTNERS SELECTED....AND ON-SITE REMEDIATION WORKS BEGIN
Glasgow City Council has selected the City Legacy Consortium - made up of CCG, Cruden, Mactagart & Mickel and WH Malcolm (Developers and Contractors), Davis Langdon LLP (Bid, Project and Cost Management), RMJM (Masterplanners and Design Champions), WSP Consulting (Engineers), Turley Associates (Community Benefit and Town Planning advice) Burness LLP (Legal advisors), Scottish and Southern Energy (Utilities infrastructure and sustainability and JJL (Property Development advice) - to deliver the 2014 Commonwealth Games Athletes Village.
The village will occupy a 38.5 hectares site in Dalmarnock, providing accomodation and facilities for 6,500 compeitors and officials. After the Games, the Village will become a new residential community including 1,100 private houses, 300 homes for rent and a new 120 bed care home for the elderly.
Throught the development of the Village, community benefits will be generated through through employment and training places and the creation of opportunities for small to medium sized businesses and social enterprises.
Construction on the actual village will begin in Autumn 2010, but in the meantime work has already begun on-site with the award of a contract worth just under £6m to VHE, one of the most specialised land remediation contractors in the UK. The remediation work will also require the partial closure of Springfield Road for an 8-week period from mid-July.
26th June 2009
COUNCIL NAMES CONTRACTOR TO DELIVER NATIONAL INDOOR SPORTS ARENA AND SIR CHRIS HOY VELODROME
Glasgow City Council has named Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd as the construction contractor to deliver the National Indoor Sports Arena (NISA) and Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, a facility that will host two events at the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games
The NISA and velodrome - which will be one of the biggest indoor sports facilities of its type in Europe - will be located on a 10.5 hectare site in the East End of Glasgow, close to Celtic Park and the Commonwealth Games Athletes’ Village.
This will be the principal new dedicated sports facility for the 2014 Commonwealth Games, and will be Scotland’s first indoor velodrome, building on the celebrated successes of Sir Chris Hoy and other Scottish cyclists.
The indoor arena will have 5,000 spectator seats for sporting competitions, while the velodrome will have a further 2,000 seated and 500 standing spectators viewing a 250-metre cycle track.
Viewing capacity for the velodrome will be extended to 4,000 for the duration of the 2014 Commonwealth Games, where the venue will host the badminton and track cycling events.
The facility will be a national training centre for athletics, basketball, netball, track cycling and volleyball, and will include Scotland’s first dedicated indoor velodrome, providing elite training and an international competition standard venue.
The velodrome track will be designed by the internationally renowned designer Ralph Schuermann. Mr Schuermann designed the 2008 Olympic Games velodrome in Beijing, and some of the other notable track designs he worked on include the Minsk Arena in Belarus and the National Arena Pruszkow BGZ Arena in Poland.
The design of the velodrome’s track - and its accreditation by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) - is absolutely key to the success of the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome as an event arena.
The new headquarters of sportscotland, the national sports agency, will be located on the same site, adjacent to the NISA and velodrome.
The facility will also be the administrative base for several other national sports federations and Culture and Sport Glasgow’s sports development unit. Other features include a community sports centre with sports halls, outdoor floodlit 5-a-side courts, extensive health and fitness provision, indoor roller sports park, provision for cycling and a crèche. There will be dedicated and shared facilities for school use.
The construction project will require a total workforce of 200, including 20 new apprenticeship places, and 84 staff will be employed by Culture and Sport Glasgow to operate the venue, once opened.
Councillor Steven Purcell, Leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “The National Indoor Sports Arena and Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome will be world-class venues able to attract sporting competitions of the highest standard to Glasgow, as well as providing a fantastic community facility that presents the chance and challenge to improve health and fitness levels.
"The design and construction of this state-of-the-art facility will offer employment, training and skills opportunities to local people, and will be a real asset for the city and country for decades to come.”
John Scott, Chief Executive of Glasgow 2014 Limited, the Organising Company for the Commonwealth Games, said: “We are focused on delivering an athlete-centred Games in 2014 and the successful delivery of the NISA and Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome will significantly contribute to providing athletes with a truly outstanding sporting experience.
"These world-class venues will facilitate elite athlete training in preparation of the Games, and leave a lasting sport and economic legacy for people in Glasgow and across Scotland. This is another major milestone on our journey to 2014.”
Louise Martin CBE, Chair of sportscotland said: “This is a landmark facility, not just for the 2014 Commonwealth Games, but for the future training and competition opportunities for so many sports in Scotland. Cycling in particular will benefit immensely.
"Scotland has an excellent track record of producing world class cyclists and this fantastic new indoor facility can only help further.”
Michael Cavanagh, Chairman of Commonwealth Games Scotland said: “This is another milestone in the exciting journey towards the Commonwealth Games in 2014.
"As our plans for the Games continue to roll out and become a reality, I am sure it will inspire our athletes to train even harder to be on the podium at a home Games.”
Sports Minister Shona Robison said: “With five years to go until the opening ceremony, we continue to be on track to deliver a world class Commonwealth Games.
"The development of the National Indoor Sports Arena and Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome will showcase Glasgow and Scotland to an international audience, and continue to benefit the country for generations to come.”
The main funder of the facility is Glasgow City Council, with contributions of £11million from Glasgow 2014 Ltd and £15million from sportscotland, as part of the Scottish Government’s national and Regional Sports Facilities Strategy.
The forecasted cost of the project is £116,311,000, comprising construction works costs of £94,721,000, fit-out costs of £4,811,000, fees and ancillary charges of £13,779,000 and a central contingency of £3,000,000.
Construction work is due to begin towards the end of 2009, with contract completion expected in early 2012, with velodrome track installation expected in Spring 2012.
22nd June 2009
MILESTONE FOR URC WITH PURCHASE OF TOP-QUALITY BUSINESS UNITS
Clyde Gateway Urban Regeneration Company (URC) has taken a significant step in its long-term ambitions to deliver economic, social and physical change to communities in the East End of Glasgow and South Lanarkshire, thanks to its purchase today of almost 44,000 sq feet of top-quality business spaces.
A total of eight units, ranging in size from 2,100 sq feet to 27,000 sq feet, located in the Farme Cross area of Rutherglen, will now be available for existing firms and business who need to move premises due to other regeneration activities within the Clyde Gateway area.
Steve Pritchard, the Executive Director of Development at Clyde Gateway said “The pace and scale of regeneration is going to mean a substantial number of existing businesses will have to relocate from their current locations fairly soon. We don’t want any of them to move away from the local area, or indeed close down altogether, so part of our strategy is to provide a ready-made quality solution that meets their needs. We firmly believe the business spaces at Rutherglen Park are perfect for this purpose and we’re delighted to have concluded this deal. Between this deal and our recent purchase of the site at London Road, I think there can be no argument that Clyde Gateway is very much up and running.”
The units are located just over 2 miles south-east of Glasgow City Centre and less than a mile from the planned Commonwealth Games village. The units will also be a little over half-a-mile away from one of the new junctions being built as part of the M74 extension due to open in 2011.
26th June 2009
GATEWAY CAPTURES KEY DEVELOPMENT SITE
The prospect of up to 1500 new jobs being created in the East End of Glasgow between now and 2014 has been firmed up with the news that Clyde Gateway Urban Regeneration Company (URC) has taken ownership of one the city’s most sought-after sites.
12 hectares (30 acres) of land on the south side of London Road adjacent to a major junction on the M74 have been purchased from Scottish Enterprise for just over £3m, and Clyde Gateway is now looking to develop the site as a high-quality business park.
The brownfield site already has outline planning consent for the erection of business, general industrial and storage and distribution units, and is capable of accommodating a number of different layouts with up to 45,000 square metres of business space.
Ian Manson, the Chief Executive of Clyde Gateway said, “The acquisition of this site is the most important decision we have taken thus far in the 15 months since Clyde Gateway was formed. It allows us to deliver a major project that will provide significant development opportunities for new investors as well as giving us some flexibility for relocating a number of key businesses that will be affected by other regeneration proposals elsewhere in the Gateway area.
“Our research shows that there is an acute shortage of good quality industrial space within Glasgow, and this particular site, which sits adjacent to the extended M74 and just two minutes from one of its major junctions, is exceptional in terms of location.
The site sits between Auchenshuggle Woods and Dalbeath Crematorium, and Clyde Gateway has already commissioned the planning consultancy Halcrow to draw up a Masterplan and carry out consultation with local residents.
The construction of the new Business Park at London Road is anticipated to begin by in early 2010.
11th June 2009
GATEWAY RESIDENTS GIVEN JOBS AND TRAINING BOOST
Thanks to a unique partnership between Clyde Gateway Urban Regeneration Company (URC), and the Glasgow-based construction firm City Building LLP, ten residents living in either the East End of Glasgow or Rutherglen have been given a fantastic two-year apprenticeship opportunity.
The ten residents, whose ages range from 25 to 45, are all long-term unemployed who emerged from a rigorous selection process which included testing and an interview, and are the latest beneficiaries of a partnership which sees Clyde Gateway and City Building each making an investment towards the costs of full-term apprenticeships.
Steven Callaghan (39) from Oatlands, John Coster (45) from Bridgeton, Paul Curran (31) from Bridgeton, James Hamilton (35) from Dalmarnock, Ryan Houston (25) from Calton, Peter McCue (38) from Rutherglen, Brendan Murray (39) from Bridgeton, Alan Stewart (25) from Bridgeton, Christopher Mullen (28) from Oatlands and John Skinner (25) from Calton are all now training to be joiners.
The partnership had previously allowed six local school-leavers, in September 2008, to be given four-year apprenticeship as either electricians or joiners.
Councillor George Ryan, a member of the Clyde Gateway Board as well as Executive Member for Business and the Economy at Glasgow City Council, was delighted with the latest results of the partnership.
He said, “At a time when jobs and training opportunities are that bit harder to find, I think it is highly significant that Clyde Gateway is making extra efforts to make a difference.
“One of Clyde Gateway’s main aims is to create employment opportunities for local residents, and we know from past experiences that a place on the apprenticeship scheme with City Building is very highly valued and seen as a great way to obtaining the best skills and training available.
“Our investment has already allowed 16 local residents to make big changes in their lives, but this is just the beginning of what we are going to do in terms of helping with the economic, social and physical transformation of the local communities.
“Clyde Gateway is serious about making a difference, and today’s announcement will not be the last in terms of our support for new training and employment opportunities.”
Willie Doherty, the Managing Director of City Building LLP, also gave a very warm welcome to the latest recruits to his firm’s award-winning apprenticeship scheme.
He said, “While most people probably think that all of the City Building apprentices come straight from school, they should realise that we do provide opportunities to people of all ages. These latest recruits have already shown desire and willingness throughout the selection process, and I’ve every faith that when they complete their training in two years, the skills they will have learned will be put to good use in the construction industry.”
“I’m also delighted that the partnership between City Building and Clyde Gateway has delivered so many opportunities early on, and I look forward to us continuing to work together in the years ahead.”
The cost of all of the 16 apprenticeships is approximately £650,000, with two-thirds coming from Clyde Gateway and one-third from City Building LLP.
27th April 2009
JOBS BOOST FOR LOCALS WITH EXTENSION OF PROJECT TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO RAILWAY STATION
Clyde Gateway Urban Regeneration Company (URC) has agreed to spend an additional £600,000 in an extension of its project to improve the access in and around Rutherglen Station. The decision, which was taken at today’s meeting of the Clyde Gateway Board, means the URC will be investing a total of over £2million on the project.
Work is scheduled to begin within the next two weeks, and will be completed by the end of November. As part of the conditions of the contract, ten new trainees in construction skills, all of them from South Lanarkshire, will be taken on by the successful tenderer, Land Engineering. Three of these training places will be specifically dedicated to the Rutherglen Station project, and these will be filled by Ruglonians living within the Clyde Gateway area.
Alison Brown is the Project Manager at Clyde Gateway, and she explained, “We had previously agreed to spend just over £1.4million on improving access from Main Street to the station thanks to the creation of a pedestrian zone on Castle Street and the diversion of traffic onto Green Road. In looking more closely at the plans, we began to see that pedestrians and local residents would get far more benefits if we extended the work into Victoria Street up to the junction with Farmeloan Road. We discussed the proposal with Land Engineering and were delighted that the work could be carried out as an extension to the original contract with no delays in timescale.”
Alison added, “Another factor in extending the contract was that giving it a value of just over £2million allowed Land Engineering to take on additional construction trainees, meaning our investment not only made a difference to the physical look of Rutherglen but brought a substantial economic benefit to local people. It really is a win-win situation.”
Under the proposals, Castle Street will be resurfaced in granite setts and new lighting installed. Green Road will be resurfaced, with trees planted on its western side adjacent to the public car park.
The car park at the junction of King Street and Castle Street will be reconfigured in size form 16 to 12 spaces, with landscape improvements. The area around the station will be resurfaced and provided with improved lighting and landscaping, while Victoria Street will have grantite paving, improve lighting, new car parking spaces along with improvements and public art in the space around the newly opened Burgh Primary School, with pupils getting directly involved in the design of the artwork.
In addition, in an effort to encourage further usage of the station and an improved customer service, real time rail information will be provided on Main Street as well as at the main station entrance on Victoria Street.
The improvements are a result of Clyde Gateway holding a series of public consultations in the Town Hall and Council Offices in King Street in June and December 2008, the results of which saw overwhelming support for the project.
Hamish McBride, the South Lanarkshire Community Representative on the Clyde Gateway Board, said:-
“There have been lots of complaints over the years that the station, being tucked away down a side street, doesn’t really feel part of Rutherglen, but that is all going to change thanks to this substantial investment by Clyde Gateway.
With the rail authorities also spending money on a new lift and changes to the ticket office, Rutherglen station and the surrounding area will see new investment of more than three-and-a-quarter million pounds during 2009 which is just great news for everyone who wants to see improvements in the Burgh.”
Hamish added, “I’m particularly pleased that the work is going to start immediately as this will mean Rutherglen is the location for the first project of major significance to be carried out by Clyde Gateway.
The fact that ten local people will be given a training opportunity as a result of this investment, and that the kids from the local primary school will be involved later this year with the public art works on Victoria Street, is clear evidence of what I have long said that Clyde Gateway is an organisation which is going to make a real difference to everyone in the years ahead.”
The contract for the project has been secured by Land Engineering, and work will begin in early May, lasting for 30 weeks with a completion date of the end of November 2009. The three new local trainees will begin work on-site at the beginning of June.
20th February 2009
GATEWAY'S £3M CASH BOOST FOR VITAL ROAD LINK
Clyde Gateway is to make a repayable grant of £3m towards the construction costs of Phase 1 of the East End Regeneration Route (EERR). The delivery of the EERR, which will link the extended M74 to the M8 is the responsibility of Glasgow City Council, but a key dependency for Clyde Gateway as it opens up early action development sites.
The construction work has been split into three discrete phases, with Phase 1 to run from Polmadie Road to Rutherglen Bridge to be financed by Gladedale Homes as part of the development at Oatlands, but the housing company had recently the Council that the impact of the credit crunch had resulted in them not being able to generate sufficient income from house sales to finance the cost. The short notice given meant that Council was unable to provide the finance as its capital works programme for the next twelve months was fully committed.
Ian Manson, the Chief Executive of Clyde Gateway said, "This is good news all round for the communities across the East End and in South Lanarkshire. The East End Regeneration Route is hugely important to unlock development sites, particularly in Shawfield and Dalmarnock. Everyone involved in Clyde gateway recognises that this new road is a key piece of infrastructure in accelerating our own plans to transform the area.
"The Clyde Gateway Board was completely supportive of the suggestion that we make £3m available through a repayable grant for the construction of Phase 1 from Polmadie to Rutherglen Bridge. I am delighted that in taking this decision, Clyde Gateway will ensure a timeous start to the project, maintain the quality of design and most importantly, protect the jobs associated with its construction."
The involvement of Clyde Gateway has also been welcomed by Councillor Stephen Purcell, the Leader of Glasgow City Council who said, "The financial crisis is having a huge effect on the construction industry and it is important we support the sector in Glasgow. We have to be prepared to relax rules and show more flexibility to promote development, safeguard business and protect jobs, skills and our regeneration goals.
"The proposals we are making for Oatlands should ease pressure on Gladedale at a crucial time and ensure there is no hold-up in the delivery of the East End Regeneration Route, M74 completion or the 2014 Commonwealth Games venues."
4th February 2009
URC TO MAKE ADDITIONAL INVESTMENTS IN BRIDGETON
Clyde Gateway Urban Regeneration Company (URC) has unveiled further plans for physical improvements in the Bridgeton area.
Having already committed £1.1m to a public realm scheme at Bridgeton Cross, the company is now going to consult local residents on proposals to regenerate and upgrade Tullis Street cemetery.
Tullis Street cemetery was closed as a burial place as long ago as May 1870, and the bodies were exhumed not long after. In the mid 1980s, the cemetery underwent environmental improvements through the Glasgow East Area Renewal (GEAR) programme, including the construction of a footpath, landscaping and the installation of seating.
In recent years, the cemetery has not seen any ongoing investment other than routine care and maintenance, such a grass-cutting and litter clean-ups. Residents attending a public meeting with Clyde Gateway officials in mid-2008 identified the area as one they hoped some early action could be carried out.
Alison Brown, Project Manager at Clyde Gateway has the responsibility of taking the plans forward. She said:-
“What we’ve done so far is ask Austin Smith Lord, a well-known firm of environmental architects to produce some drawings of what might be possible at Tullis Street in terms of layout, improved lighting and footpaths. We’re going to hold an exhibition in one of our offices at Bridgeton Cross between the 11th and 13th February, between 10am and 4.30pm each day, to find out if local residents are happy with what we have in mind. But should anyone be unable to make it along to the exhibition, I’ll be more than happy to talk to them on a one-to-one basis and take their views on board.”
A budget of £450,000 has been allocated for the Tullis Street works, and should the plans get public support, work could begin by May 2009 subject to the necessary planning permissions being obtained from Glasgow City Council.
Clyde Gateway has also announced initial plans for the redevelopment of a site in Landressy Street opposite the Bridgeton Public Library.
The company has recently bought the long-closed Keystane Pub and customers’ car park which has allowed it to gain ownership of a larger space which could, in the future, be the site of new houses or offices.
The first stage of the proposals will be to make the whole site safe and secure, and so the former pub will be demolished, with work scheduled to begin next month. Clyde Gateway has posted leaflets through the doors of local residents, and given an undertaking to keep everyone advised of progress.
29th December 2008
PEOPLE POWER TO RING THE CHANGES AT BRIDGETON CROSS
Bridgeton Cross, one of Glasgow’s most famous and historic landmarks is to set to undergo massive change in 2009, thanks to a £1m plus investment from Clyde Gateway.
The main focus of the Cross – the shelter and clock, more commonly referred to as the Umbrella – will remain firmly in place, but the road layout, streetscape and lighting that surrounds it will all be transformed.
The project was identified as a key early action by Clyde Gateway, and while it will be the main funder of the works, the shape and style of the changes will be determined by a group of local residents and shop owners.
Discussions at a community meeting held in late 2008 led to the establishment of a Steering Group of twelve local representatives who have since met to consider various ideas and suggestions from landscape architects. The Steering Group has now selected Gillespie’s, one of the UK’s largest and best-known environmental design teams, to take the project forward.
Ian Manson, the Chief Executive of Clyde Gateway said, “All too often, those most affected by changes of this scale and nature don’t have a big enough say in what should happen. But we wanted local residents and shopkeepers to take the lead with some support from the professional staff here at Clyde Gateway.”
“Now that the design consultants have been selected, the Steering Group can begin to focus in on the sorts of things they want incorporated into the improvements, including the quality of the landscaping, the style of new lighting, the introduction of public art and not forgetting the wider safety improvements, including traffic management.”
“One other idea we want them to consider is the heritage of the area. For instance, Bridgeton is home to one of the oldest Burns’ Clubs in the world, and in the year when we are celebrating the 250th Anniversary of his birth, it may well be appropriate to include some sort of commemoration within the works.”
The power given to local residents and businesses has been welcomed. Owen Stewart, a Bridgeton resident who volunteered to sit on the Steering Group said, “Clyde Gateway is very quickly gaining a great reputation for the way it is linking into the local communities in Bridgeton and Dalmarnock, and I was delighted to be given the chance to become involved in this particular project. It was incredibly interesting to see the different ideas from the various architects and designers, and to be able to have such a say in making the final selection.”
“Bridgeton Cross is one of Glasgow’s gems, and the idea of it getting such a substantial makeover is one that will definitely give the whole community a real lift.”
The Steering Group has asked Gillespie’s to produce detailed designs by the end of January. Local exhibitions and meetings will then be arranged to highlight the proposals, and subject to relevant permissions being obtained, work on the improvements should begin by October 2009, with a completion date of early 2010.
20th October 2008
COUP FOR CLYDE GATEWAY AS REGENERATION EXPERT JOINS SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM
One of the UK’s most experienced practitioners in large-scale urban regeneration is to take up a senior position at the Clyde Gateway Urban Regeneration Company (URC).
Steve Pritchard is joining Clyde Gateway as Executive Director of Development, having spent the past 19 years working for Associated British Ports in South Wales, where, among many landmark achievements on a range of major regeneration projects, he played a significant part in securing the National Assembly for Wales as a tenant within the re-developed Cardiff Bay. He also played a key part in the procurement of the Master Plan and delivery of the Waterfront Barry scheme.
Having spent much of his career working on the regeneration of areas that had previously had to face up to social, economic and physical problems as a result of the loss of traditional industries, Steve brings immense experience, knowledge and skills to Clyde Gateway as it embarks on its own mission to renew large areas of the East End of Glasgow and South Lanarkshire.
Steve said, “I have spent almost all my life transforming areas, and all of the projects I worked upon involved bringing redundant land back into productive use in partnership with the public sector and the local community. I am proud of all that I achieved in South Wales, but feel that the time is right to move on for another challenge.
“The whole concept of Clyde Gateway is enormously exciting, and without question, massive changes are going to take place, thanks in part to the 2014 Commonwealth Games and the construction of new roads infrastructure. I’m thrilled to be given the chance to be part of it all, and look forward to adding my knowledge and expertise to the excellent team already in place.”
Dr Robert Crawford, the Chair of the Clyde Gateway Board said “It is hugely encouraging for us that Steve wants to be part of the aims and aspirations of Clyde Gateway. He is an individual with an outstanding track record in the physical and economic transformation of communities which speaks for itself, and I’m looking forward to working with him in the years ahead.”
Ian Manson, the Chief Executive of Clyde Gateway was among the panel who interviewed the candidates for the post, and he said “Steve has achieved a great deal over the course of his career, helping to attract millions of pounds of investment to regeneration schemes of the very highest quality. He retains a real passion for the work that he does, and he is fully committed to our concept that local people have to be put at the centre of all our efforts in the years ahead. I really do think his coming here is a coup for Clyde Gateway – he is the perfect addition to our team and I know he will deliver success.”
10th September 2008
HELPING HAND LETS LOCAL YOUNGSTERS REALISE AMBITIONS
Thanks to a unique partnership between the Clyde Gateway Urban Regeneration Company (URC) and the Glasgow-based construction firm City Building LLP, six youngsters from the Bridgeton, Dalmarnock and Rutherglen areas have realised their ambitions to land a four-year apprenticeship training opportunity.
Each year, more than 1500 school leavers apply to be taken on as a trades apprentice with City Building, and after a rigorous recruitment process, including an interview, around 100 are lucky enough to be given a place. Without Clyde Gateway’s intervention, funds would only have been available to take on one applicant living within the local area. However, a wholly new partnership agreement will result in an additional 12 apprenticeships being created – 8 funded by Clyde Gateway and 4 funded by City Building. The first effect of the partnership has ensured that all of the 2008 school-leavers living in the local communities who applied and qualified can be given a place immediately.
Jackie Farrell and Steven Kerr, both from Bridgeton, have been taken on as apprentice electricians. Partick Byrne and Stephen Welsh of Rutherglen, Curtis Findlay of Dalmarnock and John Malcolm of Bridgeton are now training to be joiners.
The Vice-Chair of Clyde Gateway, Cllr Chris Thompson, was delighted with the first results the new partnership.
He said, “One of the key goals for Clyde Gateway is to increase economic activity, particularly through the creation of employment opportunities for local people. It’s quite clear from the numbers who apply every year that a place on the City Building apprenticeship scheme is highly valued among young people.
“The fact that we have very quickly been able to specifically support youngsters living in our local communities across Bridgeton, Dalmarnock, Parkhead, Rutherglen and Shawfield is a tremendous start, and one that I know will show local residents just how serious we are about making a difference.
“However, there are many other things Clyde Gateway would like to do to help deliver employment, training and apprenticeship opportunities for local residents, and I know there will be many more exciting announcements made in the not too distant future.
Ian Manson, the Chief Executive of Clyde Gateway, also gave a very warm welcome to the new apprentices.
He said, “The discussions with City Building have gone very well, and I’m delighted that our involvement and financial support has allowed the six youngsters to realise their ambitions of a trades apprenticeship.
1st ;May 2008
CHIEF EXECUTIVE APPOINTED TO LEAD SCOTLAND’S BIGGEST REGENERATION PROJECT
One of the Scotland’s most experienced and foremost public-sector planning and regeneration experts has been appointed to the post of Chief Executive of the Clyde Gateway Urban Regeneration Company (URC).
Ian Manson (48) takes up the reins of one of the largest regeneration projects in Europe, having already enjoyed a 25-year career that has seen him work on major projects in Birmingham, North Lanarkshire as well as Glasgow, where he has been based since 1991.
Born in Inverness, and a double graduate of Aberdeen and Glasgow Universities, Ian was part of the inner-city regeneration team in Birmingham in the early 80s, before returning home to Scotland to lead the urban regeneration programme in Monklands in 1990 . He then moved to Glasgow District Council in 1991, and in recent years has held a number of key posts, including those of Head of Corporate Policy, Senior Depute Director of Development & Regeneration Services and the Chief Advisor to the Leader of the Council.
With a background that has covered physical planning as well as social and economic development, including job creation and business growth and a range of public/private sector partnerships, Ian brings a depth of knowledge and range of skills that will enable him to meet the challenges of a project that is set to be in place for the next two decades.
Ian said, “This is a dream job, as there has never been a better time to be part of the massive and exciting changes that are going to take place in the communities of Bridgeton, Dalmarnock, Parkhead, Rutherglen and Shawfield. The whole area is going to be physically transformed thanks to new infrastructure and the 2014 Commonwealth Games, but I see my main task as ensuring that Clyde Gateway has a positive effect on the lives of local residents in both economic and social terms.
“I want everyone in the East End of Glasgow and Rutherglen to be part of the success stories that are going to come our way, and share in a lasting legacy. The Clyde Gateway project, and my role as Chief Executive, will only be judged a success when the image, perception and fortunes of this area change for the better, and when local people move into jobs and new homes and enjoy a higher quality of life.”
The Chair of the Clyde Gateway Board, Dr Robert Crawford said,
“The tasks facing Clyde Gateway over the next two decades are very challenging and daunting, and it was essential that we found someone with the right blend of skills and relevant experience to head up the organisation.
“Ian clearly has all the professional attributes we were seeking, but all of us on the selection panel were hugely impressed by his drive, commitment and enthusiasm for the tasks in hand, as well as his determination to put local people at the forefront of his approach.
“His own ambition perfectly matches the ambition of the Board members, namely that Clyde Gateway cannot be seen as just a physical regeneration project. I personally look forward to working very closely with Ian, and am confident the URC is now in a great position to create the perfect conditions to deliver success across the communities.”
