Clyde Waterfront Green Network Strategy 1

CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 1

Clyde Waterfront Green Network Strategy 2 CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 3

Contents 01 Introduction 02 Context 03 Methodology 04 Network Characteristics 05 Strategic Framework 06 Proposed Projects 07 Delivery and Implementation 08 Next Steps 4

“The Green Network is an ambitious 20 year programme, which will link parks, walkways, woodlands and countryside along miles of path and cycle routes bringing 01 a range of social, economic and environmental benefits Introduction to the Glasgow Metropolitan Region. Our Vision is for a transformed environment which improves lives and communities and lets business flourish.”

Glasgow Clyde Valley Green Network Partnership CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 5

River Clyde

Understanding the Green Network The Green Network approach seeks to create Understanding these benefits drives identification incidental spaces within built up areas. They a series of connected, complimentary and of opportunities for and delivery of change in the can and should provide for a range of functions high quality greenspaces across the Glasgow short, medium and long term. Green Networks can encompassing wildlife havens, recreation and Metropolitan Region. help to; cultural experiences, organised sport and informal amenity/play. They operate at all spatial levels, The concept of Green Networks advocates a • Encourage stronger communities by creating from small scale spaces in urban centres, through joined-up approach to environmental management: places to be proud of suburban fringe, to wider open countryside. Rather than concentrating on individual sites in • Improve health by supporting active lifestyles and isolation, the approach considers the relationship enhancing a sense of well-being Objectives between greenspaces, habitats and the needs • Support biodiversity and environmental of surroundings communities; defining assets, The main objective of this Green Network Strategy sustainability by creating connected habitats articulating a clear strategy and providing a policy is to set out a bold and imaginative framework framework in which to set priorities for investment. • Stimulate enterprise and boost local economies for Clyde Waterfront that can help deliver a step Glasgow and Clyde Valley Green Network by increasing confidence in areas change in the quality of its greenspace assets. This Partnership (GCV GNP) is the organisation tasked is about improving the setting and competitiveness Green Networks vary from place to place, and with delivering the strategy. of this place; attracting investment, enhancing can incorporate a range of different greenspace quality of life, improving biodiversity and assets, including for example green corridors, It is increasingly recognised that high quality encouraging healthy lifestyles. Green Networks can provide multiple benefits. semi-natural spaces, managed public parks and 6

The strategy is based on the outcomes of a study corridors that connect into the River Clyde can be are many spaces which are of much poorer quality. project which set out to: enhanced, by creating and improving spaces that These represent improvement priorities, linked to act as their ‘gateways’, drawing movement to and wider regeneration initiatives and development • Identify how the development of a Green from the wider countryside. proposals. A strategic approach will co-ordinate Network along the Clyde Waterfront would such opportunities to improve quality and diversify While Clyde Waterfront is home to greenspaces of align with the Scottish Government’s Strategic provision and function, helping create greenspace exceptional quality and character, such as Glasgow Objectives - and other policy initiatives and assets that are complimentary and balanced. documents - thus supporting the Strategic Green, Kelvingrove Park and Victoria Park, there Outline Case for intervention. • Identify how a Green Network could help support ongoing urban regeneration initiatives. • Identify how a Green Network could stimulate and support further development along the Clyde Waterfront,framing and delivering a shared vision for change.

Understanding the Opportunity

A review of existing greenspace assets reveals substantial scope for improvement, but at the same time great potential for change that can have wide reaching benefits. The Clyde Waterfront Green Network provides particular opportunities to enhance existing green corridors in a way that better connects Greater Glasgow’s communities with the wider countryside.

Considerable progress has been made creating active waterfronts along the banks of the River Clyde. This progress should be supported further, in tandem with measures to reinforce provision of quality greenspace. In particular, north-south green Key Opportunities: Clyde Waterfront Green Network CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 7

There are particular opportunities to... help to attract economically active residents, • Create connections between communities attract inward investment and help to increase and key destinations - including employment ... Encourage stronger communities property values. This is particularly significant locations, key centres and leisure/tourism • Improve the quality of urban life within the for the Clyde Waterfront where many existing destinations. Improvements to the network corridor - making it an attractive place to live. neighbourhoods suffer from low demand housing can not only link greenspace assets but also Good quality greenspace can help to raise the market conditions and where substantial new offer potential to link communities to key image and perception of the area and help to residential development seeks to mix the housing locations and centres. The potential to improve restore confidence. High quality greenspace can offer of waterfront. connections between communities to the waterfront and in turn Glasgow City Centre is apparent.

... Improve health

• Respond to local community needs for recreational activity leading to healthier lifestyles. Many of the areas along the Clyde Waterfront have populations which suffer from poor health recreational activity leading to healthier lifestyles.

... Support biodiversity and environmental sustainability

• Provide substantial ecological benefit and help to alleviate flood risk. The Green Network provides a comprehensive habitat for wildlife. There are a number of important wildlife habitats within the study area. However there are opportunities to deliver greater diversity in terms of habitat creation within the Green Network. In addition, there is potential to assist natural flood water storage.

Benefits of the Green Network 8

... Stimulate enterprise and boost local River Clyde looking towards Clydebank and Erskine Glasgow city centre looking towards Glasgow Green economies

• Help to deliver economic benefits. Green Network investment can create attractive environments encouraging future commercial and business investment. Clyde Waterfront is a key driver of economic growth within the West of Scotland. Considerable progress has been made in the creation of a comprehensive economic destination. Both Glasgow City Centre and Pacific Quay represent key employment nodes.

• Underpin and promote tourism and heritage activity. The Clyde Waterfront Green Network can play a significant part in underpinning tourism and promoting local heritage. For example, an established heritage trail is in place and will be complemented by attractions such as the Riverside Museum and ferry services along the river. The Green Network can help to connect these assets. “Progress does not demand a “You can take beauty to the bank. degraded environment. Beauty Special places have economic is good for business. There value. It’s the placemaking is a business case to respect dividend. People stay longer and and honour the land. It creates they return.” tremendous value in real estate.” (Ed McMahon – Founding Father of Green Infrastructure) (Pat Noonan – Founder of the US Conservation Fund) CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 9 10

Policy Context The most relevant policy documents influencing the NPF2 recognises that the Glasgow and Clyde Clyde Waterfront Green Network Strategy are the Valley Green Network Partnership is delivering National Planning Framework 2 [NPF2] (2009) and this National Development in the west Central Belt The GCV Structure Plan (2006). by “taking forward a programme of greenspace enhancement designed to promote healthier The GCV Structure Plan (2006) identified a high lifestyles, better environments, greater biodiversity, quality, multifunctional Green Network spanning stronger communities and economic opportunity.” the metropolitan region as one of its key three And that “priority is being given to key urban themes which would deliver sustainable economic regeneration areas such as the Clyde Waterfront”. growth for the area. In 2007 the GCV Green 02 Network Partnership was formally launched to work The Clyde Waterfront is given flagship regeneration strategically in coordinating and facilitating delivery status in the GCV Structure Plan and NPF2 identifies Context of the Green Network. the “Clyde Waterfront as one of six key locations in the Central Belt where major change is taking NPF2 identifies the Central Scotland Green Network place, and where the scale and complexity of issues as one of fourteen “National Developments” in demands co-ordinated action”. This national and recognition that its delivery “offers the opportunity regional prioritisation of the area sets the context for to effect a step change in environmental quality, development of this Green Network Strategy. woodland cover and recreational opportunities. It will make Central Scotland a more attractive place to live and do business, help to absorb CO2 and promote healthier, more active lifestyles”. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 11

Regeneration Priorities The economic rationale of the River Clyde was based declined faster than any other conurbation in on the emergence of the area in the 19th century as Britain1. More specifically, between 1981 and 2008 the world’s pre-eminent shipbuilding centre. The the population of Glasgow, Renfrewshire and West river was populated by large shipbuilding companies Dunbartonshire has declined by roughly 19%, 8% and which in turn led to substantial urban growth and the 14% respectively. establishment of surrounding neighbourhoods. In Greater Glasgow from the 1980s onwards, many From the 1950’s onwards, the role of the Clyde River families who could afford to move to neighbourhoods as a major industrial centre was being eroded by the in surrounding districts away from the river corridor emergence of other shipbuilding nations. Massive did so. Many factors influence the decision for economic restructuring occurred from the 1970’s people to move into neighbourhoods, including the onwards and the decline of the shipbuilding industry availability of housing, employment opportunities and undermined the economic rationale of many of the quality of community facilities and services such the communities along the Clyde. This economic as schools. However, environmental quality including restructuring has led to a legacy of socio-economic access to quality greenspaces also plays its part in inequality which continues to persist. Looking more decision making. closely at the study area (see map below) there are More recently, there has been considerable numerous areas of acute deprivation which remain success in tackling long-term population decline, particularly severe, including areas such as Gorbals, and improving the economic and residential Tradestone, Govan and Whiteinch. (Source: ONS Mid Year Population Estimates) attractiveness of the River Clyde. The continued regeneration of the Clyde Waterfront requires a The severity of this long term decline is reflected in Depopulation of Greater Glasgow changes in population in Greater Glasgow. It should balance to be struck between restoring economic be recognised that out-migration from a core urban activity, creating attractive neighbourhoods and area may reflect declining economic opportunities connecting disadvantaged communities to new or residents preferences to live in surrounding opportunities. areas, on the basis of housing and neighbourhood / environmental conditions. It is significant to note 1. Glasgow’s Recent Trajectory: Partial Recovery and its that during the 1980s, Greater Glasgow’s population Consequences Turok and Bailey (2004) 12

Clyde Waterfront – Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 13

Regeneration Projects The Clyde Waterfront Regeneration Initiative is the Regeneration areas include; and leisure uses and adjacent mixed use principal regeneration body within the study area and development proposals. • Glasgow City Centre – The commercial heart comprises of a partnership between Glasgow City of the River Clyde with a mix of business and • Clydebank Erskine – A waterfront masterplan Council, Renfrewshire Council, West Dunbartonshire residential developments. seeking to link Erskine town centre to a new Council, Scottish Enterprise and the Scottish mixed use waterfront development. Government. Clyde Waterfront is recognised as a • Pacific Quay and SECC - A new business quarter regeneration project of national importance and including a digital media campus and a major • Old Kilpatrick and Dumbarton – Proposals is one of three ‘engines’ of city-regional growth arena offer. This quarter builds on the success of seeks to revitalise both riverside towns identified in the Glasgow and Clyde Valley Joint the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre. enhancing their attractive residential qualities. Structure Plan. Future proposals include a new bridge and The following table outlines the projects in more improved public transport to the city centre. Substantial progress has been made within the last detail and indicates the depth of regeneration five years of the partnership. There are a number • Greater Govan and Glasgow Harbour – A mixed proposals in place and the significant advancement of large scale regeneration projects which have use quarter combining residential, retail and of the programme. helped to transform the riverfront from an underused leisure uses. Glasgow Harbour waterfront marginal industrial corridor into a more vibrant and apartment development represents a flagship thriving riverside. These occur within a number of project for the partnership. distinctive regeneration areas, each of which has a particular role and associated qualities. These • Renfrew Riverside and Scotsoun – The area qualities should inform the Green Network Strategy. contains a mix of large scale “big box” retail

Key Areas Project Name Proposal

Glasgow City Centre Tradeston A masterplan has been developed which includes proposals for bars, restaurants and an artistic district. A pedestrian bridge over the Clyde has been completed. Broomielaw A mix of office and residential development. The area contains the International Financial Services District creating a highly attractive environment for indigenous and overseas firms in finance and related sectors. Gorbals regeneration Initial developments include the Crown Street neighbourhood redevelopment which includes a new park. 14

Key Areas Project Name Proposal

Pacific Quay and Digital Media Quarter – which These key existing anchors have transformed the area with potential to develop the wider location as a SECC includes Glasgow Science digital quarter. Centre/BBC Scotland/ Millennium Tower Future proposals include City Dock proposes a mix of commercial, leisure, retail and residential development within the framework of an integrated masterplan.

Scottish Exhibition and On the north bank of the river the areas role as an international hotel and conference hub is well Conference Centre established. However, future proposals include Queens Dock sustainable village which could include 1,600 new homes. Greater Govan and Glasgow Harbour The existing residential development at Glasgow Harbour (Phase 1 650 apartments) is one of the most high- Glasgow Harbour profile developments on the Clyde Waterfront. Phase 2 will include 819 apartments. In all Glasgow Harbour will include the redevelopment of 130- acre site including a mix of uses. Outline planning permission has been granted for Glasgow Harbour Commercial District which will include a range of retail, office, leisure, commercial uses along with public open space.

Renfrew Riverside Renfrew Riverside which Adjacent to Braehead Retail park Renfrew Riverside includes a mix of residential and business space. and Scotsoun includes Collectively the area constitutes a new neighbourhood. Ferry Village Ferry Village is major residential development which is underway with 700 units completed. The proposals include a strong emphasis on public realm enhancements to integrate the development with the waterfront.

Clyde View Park Clyde View park was the first new park to be built in the West of Scotland for many years.

Braehead retail park A big box retail and leisure location including Braehead Shopping Centre, Xscape, a Retail Park and surrounding business parks. Clydebank and Quays Quay – which includes A number of existing anchors form the basis of a wider proposed enterprise and learning district. Erskine Clydebank College/ Titan Enterprise Pavilion NHS Golden Jubilee Hospital Relocated hospital situated along the waterfront within largely underused extensive grounds. and business park Clyde Gate Proposal for a high quality business park – proposals include a new sculpture park, a new connection to the waterfront and a waterfront walkway. Newshot Island’s A 73 acre local nature reserve which offers an important wintering area for wildfowl and has a path connecting it to Erskine. Old Kilpatrick to Ferry Swing Bridge and A programme of habitat management and improvements has occurred at the Saltings Local Nature Reserve. Dumbarton the Saltings Local Nature Reserve. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 15

The waterfront continues to be transformed with key anchor projects running along both sides of the riverside. As demonstrated in the diagram here, key nodes of regeneration activity have been delivered and this has unsurprisingly been concentrated in the eastern section of the corridor, closer to Glasgow city centre. The Green Network runs between these landmark projects and can reinforce connections between these destinations acting as a key network of greenspaces.

Clyde Waterfront Regeneration Areas and Projects 16

Local Community Needs Liveable environments Health and well-being With this regeneration context in mind, the future While the health of a population is a complex improvement to the Green Network has a key role to interaction of many different factors, including play in helping to make this area a more attractive personal life choices and access to resources residential location. Currently there is a varied and wealth, it is generally accepted that creating residential offer along the River which includes the opportunities for physical activity can play a part in following broad characteristics; encouraging healthier lifestyles.

• Inner city living strongly associated with single Enhancing the environment is central to improving person and smaller households. our sense of well-being. Access to good-quality public spaces can help to improve our physical and • More suburban settlements associated with mental health, encouraging us to walk, play sport, or medium sized households and small families. simply to enjoy a green and natural environment. These can include low demand market areas such as Govan and parts of Clydebank, along with This is particularly significant for the existing local higher demand market areas such as Renfrew authorities along the Clyde. The Scottish Index of and the West End. Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) Health Domain identifies areas with a higher than expected level of ill-health • Outer suburban/rural settlements such as or mortality. Looking at the Greater Glasgow and Erskine and Inchinnan are more associated with (Source: ONS Mid Year Population Estimates) Clyde area what becomes evident is that Glasgow larger families. City Council, Renfrewshire and West Dunbartonshire Relative health deprivation The Green Network strategy should respond to the Local Authorities have a much higher proportion of characteristics, needs and demands of such areas. datazones in the 15% most deprived on the Health One of the core strengths of this area is the close domain than other surrounding local authorities relationship between impressive waterfronts, urban (see diagram top right). This is reflected at a local neighbourhoods and surrounding rural hinterland. level along the River Clyde with severe levels of health deprivation in inner Glasgow and much of Renfrewshire (see diagram opposite). Interventions within the green network will need to respond to the specific recreational needs of existing and future residents. Cycling on the Forth and Clyde Canal

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This map is reproduced from Ordnanc! e Survey material with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majes! ty's Stationery Office, © Crown Copright

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Quantitative Supply Landscape Character Detailed understanding of the quantum of open The Clyde Waterfront benefits from a distinctive The Clyde represents a significant opportunity to space will be provided through individual Local landscape, and enhancing landscape character is maximise Green Network benefits right through Authority open space studies and strategies. At the central to promoting and maintaining a positive the heart of Greater Glasgow. However this time of writing these remain at different stages of image for river corridor. In terms of Regional should be complemented by other Green Corridor production. Character Areas, Landscape Types and Units, Clyde opportunities. For example, the Duntocher Burn, Waterfront is dominated by urban area cut by “Green which enters Clydebank at the north western suburb In general terms, the supply of open space along the Corridors”, giving way to areas of “Raised Beach” to of Duntocher, is important because it links the Clyde Waterfront would be expected to increase from the west towards the Inner Firth of Clyde1. Kilpatrick Hills to Goldenhill Park in Duntocher and east to west, moving from inner Glasgow to the rural the large Dalmuir Park in Clydebank. Duntocher edge environments of Erskine and Old Kilpatrick. Green Corridors are structured around the River Burn corridor maintains a semi-rural quality and is Similarly, the amount of open space relative to Clyde and provide multi-functional links, whilst often set within a deciduous woodland setting. population would be expected to increase east to areas of Raised Beach to the west sees higher west, with falling population densities. ground reach the coast forming a visible plateau. Another important Green Corridor is the Forth and Green Corridors come in different forms with their Clyde Canal, which after recent reinvestment from However, it is interesting to note that statistically common characteristic being their linearity and the Lottery Fund connects Glasgow to Edinburgh. this does not occur on a perfect correlation, and the waterbodies which exist within them. Green The canal provides a home to diverse bird and that there are some inner urban areas - Tradeston, Corridors provide important leisure and wildlife waterlife and is also used for leisure by fishermen, Oatlands - which share ratios of open space to resource as well as providing links to the surrounding birdwatchers, walkers, cyclists and canoeists. population that are comparable with outer areas countryside from urban areas. They also provide a such as Clydebank. This is no doubt skewed by In addition, both the White Cart Water and Black Cart visual relief to the conurbation’s urban fabric. factors such as a predominance of industrial land Water provide semi-rural river corridors to the south use limiting residential population. The Clyde itself is the dominant Green Corridor and and also provide access to the wider countryside. the defining landscaping feature within the study Such measurements of quantitative supply are on Finally, the River Kelvin flows in a steep wooded area, with its wide western channel narrowing the one hand worthy of note, but on the other of gorge through the north and west end of the city. significantly moving east/upstream to Glasgow limited value in informing a strategic Green Network: The corridor is enclosed and separated from the City Centre. The northern bank of the river is more Qualitative indicators - understanding the function rest of the city giving it a rural feeling, although the industrial or post-industrial in character than the and value (and potential value) to the populations greenness of the corridor deteriorates where the southern bank which is generally greener. Closer to they serve - are essential. The Green Network river flows into the Clyde and access is restricted the city centre, the river is dominated by engineered Strategy articulated in this document is based on in this location. Overall, investment in the Green banks and quay walls. an understanding such qualitative indicators (see Network has the potential to enrich the image and sections 03 and 04 below). 1 Source: SNH- Glasgow and Clyde Valley Landscape Char- identity of the river, reinforcing positive landscape acter Assessment (1999) characteristics as well as new developments. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 19 20

Heritage Biodiversity Flood risk Throughout Clyde Waterfront there is a distinctive Clyde Waterfront provides a comprehensive range The existing flood management strategy has cultural heritage worthy of protection and of habitats, and there are a number of important highlighted the importance of flood risk along the enhancement. This area provides a historic setting wildlife sites. The Inner Clyde is a key internationally River Clyde. The area is subject to tidal and/or fluvial to many Listed Buildings and Scheduled Ancient protected site and there are three Local Nature flooding: indeed, Severe flood events occurred in Monuments, but also historic cityscapes. Prominent Reserves including the Saltings Local Nature Park Renfrew and Dumbarton in 1991, where a high tide examples of this interplay include Glasgow Green and Newshot Island close to the Erskine Bridge and coincided with a high river flow. Further upstream which creates a ‘set piece’ greenspace for Glasgow Dawsholm Park. the eastern edge of Glasgow City Centre has City Centre, containing historic structures such as experienced fluvial flooding. The strategy indicates The Glasgow and Clyde Valley Integrated Habitat the McLennan Arch, the Nelson Monument and the that catchment storage on its own could not deliver Networks model identifies and maps current habitats People’s Palace and Winter Gardens. Moving west a sustainable solution due to the excessive volume and habitat networks and should be used to inform a rich industrial heritage dominates, punctuating of storage required. Tidal barrages could provide the where protection, enhancement and creation of the River Clyde with distinctive landmarks which required tidal protection, however due to operational habitat should be targeted. A rich variety of wetland now often provide interesting foil to contemporary difficulty and risk (environmental issues and cost) habitats includes the River Clyde, the Forth and architecture. Some examples include the Finnieston this option was ruled out. The existing strategy Clyde Canal and Black Cart River. The Clyde Estuary Crane, the Hydraulic Pumping Station in Govan and concludes that the provision of direct defences has contains mudflats which are exposed at low tide and Titan Crane in Clydebank. Further west, in more rural been considered the most suitable and sustainable this area has been designated as a Site of Special areas, Victorian heritage includes Erskine House and strategy for protecting both Glasgow and other Scientific Interest (SSSI), RAMSAR site and Specially Bowling Harbour. neighbouring local authorities. Protected Area (SPA) in recognition of the habitat The most prominent Scheduled Ancient Monuments they provide for the large number of waders and Despite this it is recognised that Green Infrastructure include the Antonine Wall (World Heritage Site) and wildfowl they attract. Part of the Black Cart River has an important role to play in not only managing the Forth & Clyde Canal, and the Roman Fort & Bath has been designated an SSSI and SPA; the site being surface water run-off but also flood water storage. House in Old Kilpatrick. Whilst many of these sites of European importance owing to the presence The general approach seeks to mimic natural are hidden from view or require interpretation, they of significant numbers of overwintering Whooper drainage processes where possible, while delivering represent a large number of locally important sites Swans. multiple benefits in the form of biodiversity, and features which enrich the local landscapes. A landscape and recreation. There are areas of search There are opportunities to deliver greater diversity in Heritage Trail has been identified along the River which can provide opportunities for assisting natural terms of habitat creation within the Green Network Clyde and this is complemented by several museums flood storage, responsive to the indicative floodplain informed by the IHN model. and attractions including the Scottish Maritime identified by the Scottish Environmental Protection Museum, the new Riverside Museum (the relocated Agency. Museum of Transport) and Clydebank Museum. These are key opportunities for the Green Network. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 21

Existing Green Network Strategy The existing Green Network Strategy was completed parts of the waterfront to find out more about • Transport and Access - Key gaps in the network by Land Use Consultants and sets out a spatial local histories. Key opportunities that could of access routes remain, and will be difficult strategy for greenspaces along Clyde Waterfront. add interest and value include Renfrew Ferry, to fill in the short term. The Green Network Whilst its spatial strategy remains relevant, the Erskine Ferry /Harbour, the Stobcross Crane and provides an opportunity to fill some of these - lack of articulation of key priority projects provides Lancefield Quay, The Broomielaw, Elder Park building momentum and fostering a sense of the an opportunity for further development. As such and Govan Graving Docks. The Riverside Museum river as a shared, accessible asset that belongs this Clyde Waterfront Green Network Strategy should aim to provide an accessible riverside to all of the city’s residents. New access to the seeks to build on the existing strategy by working civic space that is connected with the wider river itself should continue to be created as with stakeholders to identify and shape future green network. Community based arts projects, regeneration continues, helping to reinforce its development proposals and/or assist in acquiring such as the Linthouse Urban Village and the role as a transport route in its own right. Access funding for Green Network projects (focusing Gorbals Arts Project could also contribute to this points should be well connected to the land on setting out robust concepts and project plans theme. based access network. which represent clear proposals for change). • Environmental Links - There is a need to avoid • Economic Development and Tourism - The Notwithstanding, the existing strategy provides a further erosion of existing natural areas, and river can and should be a focus for interlinked useful platform, and is organised under the following at the same time focus on links from the Clyde community, heritage and greenspace projects set key themes; to the north and south, following the Kelvin, within a broader network of green corridors and • Community and Health – Community driven the Duntocher Burn and the Carts. Other links. The potential of the river as an important projects should continue to be progressed in opportunities could arise from regeneration cultural and tourism resource need to be the area, where people recognise the values in the Gorbals (e.g. the Laurieston Masterplan recognised, linking into the city centre, through and identity of their local spaces. Links between seeks to provide a more legible streetscape the SECC and Pacific Quay to Glasgow Harbour communities on the north and south sides complemented by significant new open spaces). and onwards to Kelvingrove. of the River Clyde would also help to change Environmental links could also help provide In addition, the existing strategy identifies actions perceptions of the cityscape, encouraging more more complete habitat networks, such as which are planned or could be progressed in the people to recognise the river as a connecting improved linear connections between key nature short to medium term with the involvement of key element of a Green Network, as opposed to a conservation locations. The River itself should stakeholders. These are summarised in the table barrier. be recognised as an important biodiversity below, and a commentary is provided as to their corridor. There is scope to ‘naturalise’ its banks • Arts, Culture and Heritage - Heritage, arts continued relevance. Some of these actions will be particularly around Govan, Clydebank and and cultural projects should be progressed explored further later in this document. Scotstoun where the current decay of the river and co-ordinated to help orientate users of the edge provides a key opportunity. Green Network and inspire them to visit other 22

Action Area Priority Projects Comment

Action Area 1 - At Clydebank, Creating Green Network links through new Remains relevant, however it is necessary to explore in greater detail how Clydebank development to provide links between communities and the to achieve this to ensure new development establishes these links. riverside. Creating links between the river and the Forth and Clyde Canal;

Action Area 2 - At Erskine, further developing the network of biodiversity sites, Remains relevant, however it is necessary to explore in greater detail as Erskine to White enhancing opportunities for understanding and enjoyment; how to achieve this. In particular, identify key opportunities to strengthen Cart the network of biodiversity sites on either banks of the River Clyde should be explored.

Action Area At Renfrew, improve Robertson Park and create Green Network Remains relevant. However some improvements to Robertson Park have 3 - Renfrew links between the town centre and the Ferry, and between existing occurred. The local authority is investing £60,000 in the park to install Waterfront communities, new developments and the waterfront; new equipment and improve the play area at the Park.

Action Area 4 - At Yoker, improving links between existing and temporary While improvements of links between existing and temporary Yoker to Whiteinch greenspaces, including along the Forth and Clyde Canal, promoting greenspaces remains important a key priority is to seek to look for health walks and improving signage and information; opportunities to create new multifunctional greenspaces within this area. The Yoker Riverside residential development (450 dwellings) offers some opportunity to achieve this along with the Rothesay Dock East. The provision of greenspace to meet the needs of the existing and future community here could in turn connect well with existing greenspaces.

At Scotstoun, improving links between Victoria Park, cycle routes, Probably not a priority as the links between Victoria Park and Scotsoun Scotstoun Leisure Centre and Jordanhill Campus; Leisure Centre are acceptable. An existing railway line does separate the Scotstoun Leisure Centre and Jordanhill Campus however there are limited opportunities to provide new routes across to Jordanhill Campus to the north. Therefore potential for improvement is limited.

At Whiteinch, working with the local community to realise the Some improvements to the park have occurred through the provision of a potential of Whiteinch Park; community facility.

Action Area 5 - At Govan, integration with the proposals in the Central Govan Action The physical regeneration of Elder Park has occurred including the Govan Plan and the restoration of Elder Park, and the involvement of the refurbishment of gates, railings, paths and infrastructure. The proposal local community to realise its potential as local as well as city-wide also includes the introduction of community and recreational uses. resource. The linking of currently underused spaces to create a network of habitats and greenspaces, linking to the riverside; CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 23

Action Area 6 - At Glasgow Harbour, develop the Green Network to link well This is probably one of the key priority areas for the future development Glasgow Harbour established and new greenspaces, and connect with new and of the Green Network. Due to existing extensive road infrastructure existing local communities. Creating a habitat link along the Clyde the connection of Glasgow Harbour to the wider urban area has not Expressway, connecting with the Clyde, the Kelvin and other been achieved. However the previous strategy has not explored fully biodiversity sites; the opportunity to connect key leisure, residential and greenspace destinations along the River Kelvin Valley from the Clyde to the wider countryside. At the SECC, creation of a Green Network Link to Kelvingrove Park Still relevant and becomes even more significant if the lower part of the and Museum; River Kelvin Valley is opened up and enhanced.

Action Area 7 – At Pacific Quay, securing physical and qualitative improvements to Still relevant. The physical and perceived links between Festival Park and SECC and Pacific routes accessing Festival Park, and raising wider awareness of the the Science Centre are poor. The park is not well overlooked making it an Quay resource and its role as a link between Cessnock subway station uninviting place. and the Science Centre;

Action Area 8 – At Finnieston, improved links between communities and the river in Still relevant however not a pressing priority. Lancefield and the Lancefield Quay area; Springfield Quays Action Area 9 - At the International Financial Services District, measures to Landscape improvements have occurred along the riverfront through the Broomielaw and improve the usability of riverside greenspace along Broomielaw, Broomielaw and Tradestone Riverside project. This provides safe and Tradeston particularly in the context of the Fastlink project; accessible waterfront and appealing pedestrian routes. The proposed Broomielaw Pavilions will bring more activity to the waterfront through a series of restaurants, cafes and bars. One way to improve the usability of the riverside is to provide an urban square along the waterfront and opportunities for this could be sought on either side of the river or along Customhouse Quay. At Tradeston, the development of quality Green Network links and Remains relevant. spaces as part of the proposed redevelopment;

Action Area 10 – At Customhouse Quay, the creation of high quality Green Remains relevant. However greater detail of proposal should be provided. Clyde Street and Network links and spaces associated with the new footbridge and The Custom House Quay development includes two new hotels. Again a Laurieston connections to Buchanan Street; proposal for a new urban square could be provided on either side of the river. Action Area 11 – At Glasgow Green, the development of initiatives to encourage Remains relevant and the adjacent Richmond Park offers opportunities to Glasgow Green stronger links with surrounding communities and to develop its role connect communities to the south to Glasgow Green. as a city-wide venue for events. 24

Summary • There has been considerable success in tackling Clyde with severe levels of health deprivation • The existing flood management strategy has the long-term socio-economic decline in in Inner Glasgow and much of Renfrewshire. highlighted the importance of flood risk along areas along the River Clyde, and improving its The Green Network will need to respond to the the River Clyde. The area is subject to tidal and/ economic and residential attractiveness. specific recreational needs of existing and future or fluvial flooding. It is recognised that Green residents. Infrastructure has an important role to play in • A number of large scale regeneration projects not only managing surface water run-off but also have helped to transform the riverfront from • A Heritage Trail has been identified along the flood water storage. an underused/marginal industrial corridor River Clyde and this is complemented by several into a more vibrant and thriving riverside. Key museums and attractions including the Scottish regeneration areas have distinctive roles and Maritime Museum, the new Riverside Museum qualities which inform the Green Network (the relocated Museum of Transport) and Strategy. Clyde Waterfront includes landmark Clydebank Museum. Where possible the Green buildings and there is potential to reinforce Network should seek to improve access to this connections between key destinations. heritage trail and reinforce the landscape setting of heritage assets. • A key challenge for future investment along the Clyde Waterfront is to ensure that investment • The River Clyde is a prominent, defining Green seeks to make the corridor an attractive Corridor within the region’s landscape character residential and employment location. The area structure. This is complemented by other Green has a varied residential offer with different Corridors such as Duntocher Burn, the Forth characteristics, strengths and weaknesses. and Clyde Canal, White Cart Water and Black Cart Water and River Kelvin, which introduce • Much of Erskine and Old Kilpatrick is well their own distinctive landscape characteristics. served by open space and has good access to Overall investment in the Green Network has surrounding semi-rural areas. Other areas of the the potential to enrich the image and identity river corridor demonstrate more limited open of the river, reinforcing positive landscape space provision including the areas between characteristics as well as new developments. Whiteinch, Finnieston and Govan and Yoker. • A rich variety of wetland habitats exist and • In terms of key health indicators, Glasgow City include the River Clyde, the Forth and Clyde Council, Renfrewshire and West Dunbartonshire Canal and Black Cart River. perform less well than other local authorities. This is reflected at a local level along the River CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 25 26

Strategic Sites The Clyde Waterfront study area consists of a 1500m buffer from the River Clyde, covering the three Local Authorities of Glasgow City, West Dunbartonshire and Renfrewshire. A review of Green Network resources along the river corridor has been carried out, to identify locations and sites that have potential In order to assess the Green to impact most on the overall function and quality of Network resource and the Green Network, and that should as a result be subject to more detailed qualitative analysis. Overall identify opportunities for 45 strategic sites were identified on the basis of the 03 change throughout the Clyde following characteristics; Methodology Waterfront, it is essential • Size to identify and understand • Location • Condition key assets and actively • Levels of use encourage stakeholder • Catchment areas engagement. • Types of experience • Potential for linkages with other parts of the Green Network • Strategic importance A full range of greenspace typologies has been included in this study, as illustrated on the maps overleaf. The exception to this has been privately owned space, excluded due to issues of accessibility and the potential for change to impact on the public good. The main focus of the qualitative assessments was on Green Corridors, which make up 29% of the overall greenspace resource, Public Parks which make up 31% and Amenity Space, 18%. The focus on CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 27

Stakeholder Engagement Green Corridors is important due to their potential to Involving stakeholders has been invaluable, and this different scenarios were put forward to structure improve connectivity between greenspace assets. process has been carried out through the following debate and focus proposals; main steps. It is important to note that the river Clyde itself has • A regeneration-led scenario not been assessed in its own right. It has however Client Group Input • A community-led scenario been regarded as a significant feature within many The Client Group included representatives from • An environment-led scenario of the other site assessments. It is acknowledged Scottish Enterprise, GCV Green Network Partnership, that the River Clyde is the main Green/Blue corridor Clyde Waterfront, Renfrewshire Council and Glasgow These scenarios were used to describe different in the study area and that any Green Network City Council. These representatives have played a implications for Green Network provision and strategy/intervention must maximise opportunities major role in the development of the strategy. different projects which could result. Group it presents, as well as tackling any associated workshops tested the suitability of scenarios Stakeholder Consultation weaknesses (e.g. barriers to north-south movement). and projects, allowing opportunity to offer other A wide range of key stakeholders were contacted solutions. and were asked to complete questionnaires which Qualitative Assessment covered the major aspects of the study. Responses Qualitative analysis was carried out according to the from key stakeholders included; Greenspace Scotland/ GCVGNP Greenspace Quality • The Environment Trust Toolkit published in 2008. This guidance includes five • West Dunbartonshire Council criteria for assessing quality greenspace; • Forestry Commission Scotland • Accessible and well connected • Scottish Natural Heritage • Attractive and appealing places • Renfrewshire Council • Biodiversity, supporting ecological networks • Glasgow City Council • Active, supporting health and wellbeing The feedback from these questionnaires helped to • Community supported frame the debate with regard to Green Network and The results of the qualitative assessment formed a included a SWOT analysis of existing provision. key part of the evidence base in developing the wider Green Network strategy for the corridor. Analysis Stakeholder Workshops Individual stakeholder workshops were carried utilising GIS played an essential part in identifying out in February/March 2010 to discuss the interim key issues with regard to the Green Network results from the analysis, and to provide input to the provision and has helped to strengthen the strategy. emerging strategy and key projects proposed. Three Glasgow Green 28

Strategic Sites – Western Edge CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 29

Strategic Sites – Eastern Edge 30

04 Network Characteristics Glasgow Harbour Understanding the Place Initial analysis of Clyde Waterfront and Green Network provision reveals a number of distinct character areas where particular land uses and activities are concentrated and where different Green Network functions can be seen.

The table to the right and diagrammatic plan overleaf document an overarching appreciation for the contribution that individual elements of the existing Green Network make to the population and places along the Clyde waterfront. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 31

Character Areas Strategic Function of the Green Network Some Key Green Network Sites

Rural Edge This is effectively the western gateway to wider surrounding countryside including the Kilpatrick • Boden Boo Community Woodland Hills. The Green Network assets primarily assist in providing an attractive landscape setting and • Old Kilpatrick complement the River Clyde. • Newshot Island • Mountblow Within the settlements of Erskine and Mountblow Green Network assets play a more traditional • Playing Fields Mountblow • Erskine role providing public parks and sports areas within 1960’s Radburn housing estate layouts. • Dalmuir Park • The Saltings Local Nature Reserve Suburban Settlements On the south bank the Black Cart Water and surrounding flat agricultural land plays a strategic • Boquhanran Park role in defining the extent of the settlements of Inchinnan and Renfrew. • Inchinnan • Whitecook Recreational Ground Existing strategic sites are more focused on providing community assets including parks, • Clydebank recreational grounds and cycle routes. Park provision varies considerably between classic • Robertson Park • Yoker Victorian parks such as Robertson Park within Renfrew, 1930’s Parks such as Radnor Park and • Clyde View Park contemporary parks such as Clyde View Park. • Renfrew

Central Corridor This is an area where large big box retail, leisure and industrial uses predominate. Unsurprisingly • Glasgow - Balloch Cycle Route more limited greenspace assets exist. • Braehead • Braehead Walkway Existing strategic sites are more confined to riverside walkways and cycle routes. • Scotstoun Sports Centre Outer Glasgow In urban design terms the area contains the best of both old and new. However there is potential • Meadowside Quay for greater integration between these different urban contexts and the green network offers the • Whiteinch opportunity to achieve this. • SECC • Govan Close to the river, Glasgow Harbour and Pacific Quay are characterised by large scale landmark • Festival Park • Patrick buildings with landscaping and greenspace complementing contemporary architecture. • Victoria Park • Finnieston In the West End the residential areas of Kelvingrove, Kelvinside and Patrick contain some of the • Kelvingrove Park best examples of Victorian and Edwardian suburban housing in the city. The centre piece of the • Glasgow Harbour area is Kelvingrove Park a classic Victorian city park. The wider area also includes Kelvingrove Art • Elder Park • Pacific Quay Gallery and Museum, Glasgow University and Glasgow Botanic Gardens. Inner Glasgow The area includes the inner urban mixed use neighbourhoods of Glasgow. • Custom House Quay • Tradeston The corridor is typified by formal public realm improvements along the riverfront and large scale • Glasgow Green city parks such as Glasgow Green. • Gorbals • Richmond Park • Oatlands • Glasgow City Centre 32

Clyde Waterfront Character Areas CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 33

Green Network Corridors

Urban growth along the river has defined the spatial in improving the quality and value of greenspaces. structure of greenspace. What is evident from the Woodland areas, green corridors and semi-natural diagrammatic plan to the left is that, generally spaces are less apparent within the study area. Strategic Sites within the Green Network are located Looking at all types of greenspace (excluding private in existing neighbourhoods which are set back gardens and grounds) public parks and gardens from the riverside. There are limited examples of and amenity spaces make up a significant part strategic sites on the riverfront itself. Where these do of the resource accounting for over 20% and 25% exist, they tend to be associated with new riverside respectively. Delivering greater diversity in the types development proposals. of greenspace remains a priority.

While some diversity of greenspace types certainly This analysis also reveals clear corridors of exist, it is evident that there is a concentration of greenspaces on both sides of the River Clyde. These formal public parks and amenity spaces within provide a variety of experiences for both visitors and the study area. The importance of delivering residents. The characteristics and components of multifunctional public parks is therefore significant these corridors are illustrated above. 34

Qualitative Analysis Overview Analysis demonstrates that the overall quality of strategic sites within the Green Network can be described as “fair to good” which is a positive platform on which to build a quality Green Network. However there are a large number of sites where the need for improvement is clear.

What is evident is that the quality of strategic sites varies considerably. There are undoubtedly key greenspace assets which include Kelvingrove Park, Dalmuir Park, Glasgow Green, Roberston Park and Victoria Park. These and other greenspaces of distinction make a significant contribution to improving the quality life of residents, whilst also providing important recreational opportunities.

As demonstrated in the maps below the distribution of greenspace types is fairly evenly spread throughout the river corridor. This has the benefit of ensuring that existing communities have good access to some form of provision. It also provides opportunities to connect the assets and formalise the network through future interventions. The exception to this are within parts of the Central Corridor and Inner Glasgow where there is a notable absence of strategic sites.

Overall Qualitative Assessment Scores CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 35

Overall Quality Scores Map – Western Edge 36

Overall Quality Scores Map – Eastern Edge CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 37

Accessibility and Connectivity a continuous link between Glasgow, Old Kilpatrick Attractive and Appealing Places A number of key pieces of infrastructure present and beyond. However, it is significant to note that High quality greenspace provides an attractive setting considerable barriers to pedestrian and cycle the National Cycle Route on the north bank does not, for urban areas and appeals to users encouraging. movement. These limit north-south connectivity and for the most part, run along the riverfront. As such, The results of assessment for these criteria are constrain connections between communities, the potential exists to establish new riverfront cycle outlined in both maps below (pages 40 and 41) and, riverfront, exiting greenspace assets and the wider connections. On the south bank the National Cycle overall, the strategic sites did not score well with countryside. On the south bank, the M8, M77 and Route is far less comprehensive. almost 53% considered “not fit for purpose”. This is Glasgow Road act as significant barriers between perhaps to be expected when considering the urban At a local level, qualitative assessment has communities and the wider countryside. Likewise nature of the study area, but there should still be an considered how accessible Green Network Strategic on the north bank, the Clydeside Expressway and aspiration to improve this score. Sites are to existing communities. Good quality Railway Lines result in a number of ‘Pinch Points’ accessible greenspace can maximise opportunities Poorly performing sites appear to be clustered in (see diagram overleaf) where opportunity for for recreation for local communities. Sites in the close proximity to the river, although there are some movement is constrained. Clearly, the River Clyde study area generally scored well in this category with notable exceptions with over 20% of sites achieving itself acts as a barrier, although at least two new only 38% of sites not fit for purpose. As might be a score in the highest category. For example, bridges have been built in recent years. expected, linear sites along the banks of the Clyde Kelvingrove Park and the Rose Garden in the Gorbals East-west connectivity has been significantly tended to score quite well although the links to some are sites that score particularly well. improved through regeneration proposals which of these sites could be improved. have opened up the waterfront to pedestrian and cycling activity. However, there remain riverfront areas with no public access. While much of this can be addressed via future redevelopment proposals, in some instances this will not be altered. For example, there are a number of active shipyards such as Govan Shipyard and industrial areas which will remain in place.

As demonstrated in the next diagram below, an extensive grid network of cycle and pedestrian routes exist along the River Clyde corridor. The National Cycle Route (7, 75 and 754) remains an important resource and on the north bank provides Kelvingrove Park 38

Accessibility and Connectivity CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 39

Key Pedestrian and Cycle Routes 40

Attractive and Appealing Places – Western Edge CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 41

Attractive and Appealing Places – Eastern Edge 42

Biodiversity supporting ecological networks Actively supporting health and well being Community Supported Overall the river corridor provides a wide variety of Given the comparatively poor health of the population This is always a difficult category to assess when habitats. The importance of the river in providing within the study area the provision of recreational on site and relies more on anecdotal feedback ecological networks is recognised by a number of opportunities will remain a priority. Providing safe, from stakeholders. This feedback would indicate international and national biodiversity statutory easily accessible green routes for walking and cycling that there are a number of sites where there is designations. In particular, the Inner Clyde Special and encouraging physical activity through greenspace significant community involvement (40%). This can be Protection Area recognises that the river acts as an improvements will be essential. considered as positive as our experience has shown important habitat for wintering redshank birds. that sites with community involvement generally Existing strategic sites perform poorly with over score higher. There are still over sixty percent of sites sixty percent of sites being considered “not fit for that are not fit for purpose when scored against these purpose”. A higher score might have been expected criteria and there is obviously room for improvement. given the existing natural resources (e.g. Leven towpath, NCN route). Communities would benefit from greater access to these resources. The majority of Green Corridors score poorly in this category. It will be a key challenge to ensure that these sites actively promote activities to improve health and well being. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 43

Actively supporting health and well being – Western Edge 44

Actively supporting health and well being – Eastern Edge CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 45

Summary conclusions A summary of the key strengthens and weaknesses Key Strengths Key Weaknesses of Green Network assets is provided in the tables to • A number of distinct character areas with • Analysis has demonstrated that the overall the right. varied land uses and activities and with quality of strategic sites within the Green different Green Network functions. These Network can be considered “fair to good” with include the Rural Edge area, the Suburban the quality of individual greenspaces sites Settlements area, the Central Corridor, Outer varying considerably. Glasgow and Inner Glasgow. The existing Green Network plays a varied role in helping • Existing greenspace assets tend to be set back to define the rural setting of the River Clyde, from the waterfront. Regeneration activity providing community focused assets and to this point has indicated that the focus establishing a network of recreational routes. of activity is returning to the river. Future provision of new greenspace sites will need • Greenspace assets are relatively evenly spread to respond to these new requirements, but throughout existing neighbourhoods close in a way which can reinforce the wider Green to where people live. The Network contains Network. nationally recognised assets including the Inner Clyde Special Protection Area and the • A number of barriers exist which restrict National Cycle Route. north-south connectivity. This is a key weakness of the corridor and opportunities • Corridors of greenspaces are provided on both should be should be sought to create north- sides of the River Clyde which ensure some south connections between greenspace variety of experiences for both visitors and assets. residents. • Given the predominance of formal public • East-West connectivity has been improved parks the importance of delivering more through regeneration development proposals informal, multi-functional public parks is along the waterfront. evident.

• Geenspaces of excellence that exist within the • Greater diversity in greenspace provision corridor include Kelvingrove Park, Dalmuir should be promoted including semi-natural Park, Glasgow Green, Roberston Park and provision, green corridors and functional Victoria Park. space. 46

Vision Objectives “The Green Network Our vision for the future of the Green Network along the Clyde Waterfront will guide future policy will connect adjoining development and investment. To deliver this vision, communities with key the following objectives underpin the Green Network strategy and inform future proposals. destinations, environmental 1. Create Connections assets and the wider We see the Clyde Waterfront as one of the best countryside. It will underpin opportunities within Greater Glasgow to create 05 strong linear links between existing communities, regeneration proposals key destinations, other environmental assets and the Strategic and provide a range of wider countryside. Investment in the Green Network can help to underpin the waterfront as a pre-eminent Framework recreational opportunities sustainable residential location. The Green Network for all communities. The will help encourage more sustainable travel patterns by establish better cycle and pedestrian links to key network will become an employment locations such as Glasgow City Centre integral part of Clyde and Pacific Quay. Redevelopment proposals along the waterfront have improved east-west connectivity and Waterfront’s appeal, this progress should continue, however north-south encouraging leisure activity connectivity should be encouraged as a means to connect both banks of the River Clyde. and connecting visitor 2. Maximise Recreational Opportunities destinations. The network The strategy will seek to provide access to a range will enhance habitat of recreational activities including walking, cycling, play provision for children and sporting activities. networks.” Key assets such as the National Cycle Route, the Clyde Walkway, the River Kelvin Walkway and the Forth and Clyde Canal offer considerable potential to encourage this. With Green Network proposals seeking to meet the needs of existing and new CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 47

Green Network Spatial Strategy communities, the strategy will recognise that key 4. Enhance habitats A co-ordinating spatial strategy is articulated through areas of health deprivation exist along the waterfront Whilst there has undoubtedly been long term habitat the plan overleaf. This can be understood through and not all neighbourhoods have access to high fragmentation along the River Clyde, the existing two main components. quality greenspaces. In some areas, specific Green Network does prove a varied habitat for Green Network Connections measures such as the provision of play areas for wildlife and a number of key habitat assists exist Existing strategic connections and environmental children are required. This is particularly significant which tend to be concentrated along the western links include the River Clyde Walkway, the network of where new substantial residential development is section of the Clyde. The strategy seeks to enhance Core Paths, the existing river corridors and multiple planned or is proposed. existing habitats, improve existing habitat corridors habitat corridors. However, the spatial strategy and provide new habitat corridors where appropriate. 3. Assist Regeneration identifies opportunities to develop and enhance Considerable progress has been made in There are major opportunities for the enhancement green network environmental links and connections. transforming the Clyde Waterfront from an of habitats along the western section of the Clyde, These links have potential to provide improved underused industrial area into an attractive however many of the projects put forward contain routes between Green Network assets and the wider residential and business location. The strategy proposals which will enhance habitats at a more local countryside. Often they seek to improve connections recognises that investment in the network will help level, throughout the corridor. between established pedestrian and cycle routes. to make the waterfront an attractive place to live and They also have potential to improve habitat corridors. work and support continued investment. 5. Encourage multi-functional space Central to the Green Network concept is a Strategic Green Network Sites The creation of high quality greenspace can act as recognition that spaces can and should provide Over 40 strategic sites are included in the strategy, an anchor for further investment from the public multiple functions. The predominance of existing and many of these act as an important community and private sector. Clyde View Park is just one formal public parks within the study area reinforces resource providing greenspaces within highly example where such proposals have successfully the importance of creating more multi-functional, dense and compact urban neighbourhoods. There assisted wider regeneration development. Equally flexible greenspaces. This strategy actively remains a strategic need to deliver a greater range of high quality public realm can create distinctive encourages this and puts forward projects which greenspace types along the Clyde. environments for commercial activity. Tradeston collectively combine recreation, biodiversity, flooding waterside is an excellent example of this approach. and landscaping functions. Looking at the qualitative assessment, it is also New opportunities to extend this programme of apparent that while some strategic sites provide 6. Focus on Key Projects improvements are identified through key projects greenspace of excellence, many more can only be Identifying deliverable projects which can achieve a outlined in this strategy. These proposals take considered fair or poor. Through our key projects we step change in the quality of greenspace provision account of the existing landscape characteristics of have identified opportunities to improve the overall and shape the Green Network. Projects focus on the area, along with current regeneration activity. quality of greenspaces. strategic sites and represent clear investment proposals that could bring multiple benefits. 48

Green Network Spatial Strategy CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 49

Key Project Areas

The spatial strategy includes key project areas Two of the projects - Bowling Harbour /The Saltings where more detailed proposals for green network Local Nature Reserve and Levengrove Park - form improvements can be outlined. These are priority part of the Strathleven Corridor Green Network Study areas for the enhancement of the Green Network, located to west. which have the potential to maximise benefits. Key project areas are listed below, and section 6 outlines associated concepts and proposals;

• Kelvin Valley Park

• Richmond Park

• New Gorbals Riverside

• Yoker Riverside – Yoker Linear Park Phase 2

• Pacific Quay and Festival Park

• Clydeside Community Park

• Rashielee Quay

• Boden Boo Community Woodland, and

• Bowling Harbour and The Saltings Nature Reserve

• Levengrove Park

• Riverside Cycle Link – Established between Glasgow Harbour and Glasgow City Centre.

• Signage Projects – associated with Kelvin Valley Park and Renfrew - (the area between Braehead and Boden Boo Community Woodland). 50

Kelvin Valley Park This project is one of the clearest expressions of the Green Network ambition as it seeks to connect existing communities with key destinations, other greenspaces and the wider countryside. This project takes into account the substantial development that has occurred within the areas. These include the Riverside Museum and the adjacent development proposals along the Clyde. As part of the existing masterplan for the area, a new bridge will be developed across the River Kelvin. More recently, 06 a retail development proposal has gained outline planning consent close to Beith Street. Positive and Proposed proactive collaboration with the developer of this site can ensure that the character and detailed design of the development can reinforce the Kelvin Valley Park. Projects The project recognises that the existing Museum of Transport is being relocated to the new Riverside Museum building and that the existing Museum of Transport building will be reused for community uses. Finally there is an aspiration to establish new crossing points over the River Clyde which could include a new bridge and ferry crossings.

The Kelvin Valley Park project seeks to maximise opportunities to connect new and existing leisure and tourism opportunities associated with the SEEC, the Riverside Museum, Kelvingrove Art Galley and Museum, Kelvingrove Park and the Botanic Gardens. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 51

Key Proposals

The project seeks to create a new linear park The project includes the following key proposals; and create north-south connections between key • Possible rationalisation of the car parking residential locations, including Glasgow Harbour areas associated with the existing Museum and Queens Dock Sustainable Village as well as of Transport which is being relocated to the new residential development associated with the Riverside Museum building. This car parking West End. Ultimately safe and secure pedestrian area could form part of Kelvin River Park and cycle connections could be established which avoid extensive road and railway infrastructure that • The opening and improvement to an existing currently sever the waterfront from the wider city. railway bridge to assist pedestrian and cycle movement This new semi-natural park would contrast with the formal public realm associated with the waterfront, • Creation of a River Valley Park with associated Glasgow Harbour and the Riverside Museum. The walkways, extensive tree planting and a play area new park could provide a well sheltered quiet haven for children for existing city dwellers, families and visitors. • As part of an existing masterplan, create formal public realm improvements associated with the Clyde waterfront

• It is recognised that the proposal for Retail and Leisure uses associated with Glasgow Harbour may only occur in the medium to long term and that measures to temporarily green these sites would ensure that the area does not remain blighted in the long term

Kelvin Valley Project Area 52

Kelvin Valley Park – Linking Key Destinations (Proximity Buffers) CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 53

Kelvin Valley Project Area 54

Kelvin Valley Project Area - Opportunity to repoen the former rail bridge for pedestrians and cyclists CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 55

Below: (left) potential opportunities to integrate waterside linkages with planned / future development proposals, and (right) taking high quality pedestrian and cycle links through existing road and railway infrastructure.

Kelvin Valley Project Area - Benalder Street Kelvin Valley Project Area - Clydeside Expressway 56

Richmond Park Richmond Park is directly connected to Glasgow The proposals recognise that Richmond Park Green and the City Centre by a footbridge over the can play a dual role in both responding to local River Clyde. It is a high quality landscape resource community needs for greenspace and in forming in need of refurbishment particularly regarding its part of a wider city greenspace resource. ponds, the Polmadie Burn and the riparian edge Stakeholder consultation with Glasgow City Council to the Clyde. The Park forms an integral part of has emphasised the potential of the park for the Oatlands Regeneration Area. The development accommodating and supporting the Commonwealth agreement entered into by the chosen developer Games in 2014. The park will facilitate wider requires provision of park improvement works, as pedestrian access to Glasgow Green from the south per the Oatlands Masterplan, to the value of £1.8m. bank. Richmond Park sits between Glasgow Green However, the economic downturn has affected (the location of the Hockey Stadium), Hampden Park the likely timescale. The Council is currently and Toryglen Football Academy. There may also be Existing Richmond Park – River Walkway seeking ways to expedite delivery of the planned events on the River Clyde which could be viewed from improvements. Glasgow City Council has confirmed the Park and the area could hold some supporting that Richmond Park remains a priority for future activities associated with the games. greenspace improvements Key Proposals For safety reasons the pedestrian bridge over the The project includes the following key proposals; mouth of the Polmadie Burn was closed in 2007, reducing natural surveillance and access to the • Footpath improvements along the riverfront Clyde waterfront. The Council is currently replacing the footbridge in order to restore direct access from • Better access to the Clyde riverfront – there may the park to the existing Clyde pedestrian bridge and be potential to provide wooden boat moorings Glasgow Green. It is also working to restore and along this stretch of the river which would bring improve the riverside footpath from the bridge to the added benefit of being a viewing platform Waterside Street in the Gorbals. • Repainting and lighting the cross Clyde Existing Richmond Park – Pedestrian Bridge Our proposals respond to the substantial residential pedestrian Bridge • Upgrading of an existing sports pitch combined development that is associated with Oatlands and • The opening up of the Polmadie Burn which runs with changing rooms takes account of future proposals within the existing through the park masterplan for the area. The Oatlands masterplan • Expediting delivery of the western extension to includes future residential development within the • Additional allotments/community garden for the the park plus associated play areas park to encourage natural surveillance. Oatlands neighbourhood CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 57

Richmond Park Project Area 58

New Gorbals Riverside Key Proposals

This area sits between the River Clyde and the wider The project includes the following key proposals; Crown Street regeneration area. A comprehensive scheme by Glasgow Housing Association (GHA) is • Street tree planting along Waddell Street being carried out to renovate the multi-storey flats Commercial Road and Ballater Street to link with in Waddell Street and Commercial Court. GHA have Rose Garden also proposed a detailed landscaping scheme which • A shared surface treatment along the riverfront provides a range of leisure and recreational facilities for existing residents. • Improved viewing platforms over the river

Our proposals focus on ensuring that consistent • Establishment of linear car parking bays along landscaping proposals are put forward to tie existing side streets greenspace provision to the wider greenspace assets, • Establishment of small squares with seating such as Rose Garden. In addition, it is recognised areas that the public realm associated with the riverfront is of a poor quality. Car parking predominates close to • Softer landscaping measures along the the waterfront along with the excessive use of road waterfront bollards. Softer landscaping features are absent. Our proposals do not conflict with GHA proposals • The possibility of opening up the riverfront with for greenspace improvements associated with the an associated riverside walkway existing neighbourhood. However Green Network proposals associated with the riverfront require further agreement with GHA. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 59

New Gorbals Riverside - Wider Greenspace Connections 60

New Gorbals Riverside – Shared Surface Treatment CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 61

New Gorbals - Cross Section 1 (Potential Opening of Riverfront 62

Yoker Riverside (Yoker Linear Park Phase 2) Key Proposals The proposal responds to both the existing and The project includes the following key proposals; planned substantial residential development that is occurring through the Yoker Riverside Masterplan. • Managed and improved existing planting along This project recognises the substantial progress an existing disused railway line that Glasgow City Council has made in creating the • A proposed multi-use games area and sports first phase of the Yoker Linear Park, which roughly facility close to Yoker Football Ground aligns with the National Cycle Route and includes new allotments and formal landscape improvements. • A new children’s play area close to Dock Street Our proposals work on the basis that there remains • An area of proposed formal greenspace near to a need to maintain a ferry crossing between Yoker Greenlaw Road and Renfrew. Finally, it is recognised that this stretch of the existing National Cycle Route is particularly • Public Realm improvements around the ferry slip convoluted. • An improved pedestrian and cycle link which in the long term could form part of the National Cycle Route CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 63

YokerYoker Linear Riverside Park 64

Pacific Quay and Festival Park Key Proposals Pacific Quay has emerged as a dynamic new Festival Park is a relatively isolated but high quality The project includes the following key proposals; business district which includes high quality office greenspace resource. As part of the Pacific Quay • The possible introduction of a new multi- accommodation, key employment anchors such as Masterplan, some residential development is storey car park which would cater for existing BBC Scotland and the Scottish Criminal Records proposed to overlook Festival Park and create a and future users of Pacific Quay. A number Office and international conference facilities provided new avenue and entrance point into the park from of possible locations for the multi-storey car by the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre. the north. This is a positive proposal and will help park have been identified. This would allow the The area is characterised by iconic contemporary to encourage use and activity within the park for rationalisation of existing and future surface car architecture and remains central to ensuring that surrounding residents and people working in the parking the economic potential of the Clyde Waterfront area. is realised. Our proposals take into account of • The introduction of soft landscaping corridors Much of the southern section of Pacific Quay is the existing Pacific Quay Masterplan which has which connect to Festival Park dominated by on-site car parking. Therefore there is been developed by the consortium of developers. an imbalance between attractive public realm and This includes a future phase of both business and • A clear pedestrian crossing point on Govan Road extensive surface car parking. It is recognised that residential development south of Govan Road (Pacific some on-site surface car parking is required as part • New access points into Festival Park Quay Phase 2). In addition, our proposals recognise of future business development proposals, however draft proposals by Glasgow City Council to use the much of this car parking space could be rationalised. wider Princes Dock as a marina. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 65

Pacific Quay and Festival Park 66

Bells Square with Wider Public Realm Improvements CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 67

Existing Views of Bells Bridge and Govan Road Potential of Bell’s Square and Soft Landscaping Corridor 68

Location for the proposed Community Woodland

Clydeside Community Park Key Proposals

Clydebank Re-built is the urban regeneration • Riverside Development – A proposal for new The project includes the following key proposals; company principally responsible for the renaissance business pavilions. New access to this area has • A proposed community woodland with associated of Clydebank. been provided from the town centre allotments The company has set out a comprehensive The existing Clydeside Community Park remains • More formal landscape improvements close to masterplan for the future development of the area a relatively isolated and underused greenspace. the existing crossing point on the Forth and Clyde and a number of key development projects close to Existing perimeter fencing makes access to the Canal Clydeside Community Park have been completed or Park difficult. In addition, there is an extensive area are planned. of lawns associated with the Hospital which are • A new entrance to Clydeside Community Park currently unused. Adjacent to the Forth and Clyde from Beardmore Way with additional park These include; Canal, large areas of greenspace and sports pitches facilities • Clyde Gate – New formal high quality public exist which have been neglected. Finally, access • Improved access along the Clyde connecting the realm which has helped to stimulate private along the waterfront is constrained, particularly in park to Clyde Gate and beyond investment at Clydebank Business Park front of the hospital building where a helicopter pad is in use. • Habitat enhancements associated with • QQ Housing – A major residential development Duntocher Burn proposal to the east of the area CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 69

Clydeside Community Park 70

Existing Views of Golden Jubilee Hospital and Clydeside Community Park

Potential New Entrance to Clydeside Community Park CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 71

Rashielee Quay Key Proposals Erskine is characterised by Radburn housing estates The project includes the following key proposals; developed in the 1960’s and 70’s. The layout of • A new play area close to the existing car park these neighbourhoods tends to be internal looking, often failing to overlook adjacent attractive natural • More formal greenspace improvements assets. Equally these estates tend to separate pedestrian and vehicle movements with major road • The potential for a new woodland walk infrastructure, limiting connectivity. Despite this, connecting existing neighbourhoods to the south Erskine town is well linked internally by open space to the waterfront and local green corridors. • New paths and entry points through the informal Renfrewshire Council are currently producing a greenspace area connecting the town centre to masterplan for Erskine town centre, to support the waterfront and Newshot Island its role as a local service centre and provide a • The potential to include a new pond framework for future development to serve the local population. The masterplan has identified Rashielee • The reuse of existing mature trees which Quay, an area of existing greenspace, as a location in may be displaced by some of the masterplan which improvements could be considered. development proposals within the area

Rashielee Quay represents an area of greenspace with excellent potential for improvement. Erskine town centre remains a popular destination for local residents including families. Rashielee Quay incorporates the River Clyde Walkway and is adjacent to Newshot Island Nature Reserve. Our proposals for the area combine more formal greenspace close to the town centre with informal natural greenspace proposals closer to Newshot Island. 72

Rashielee Quay CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 73

Existing View of Rashielee Quay

Potential of Rashielee Quay 74

Boden Boo Community Woodland Key Proposals

Stakeholder consultation with Renfrewshire Council The project includes the following key proposals has indicated that consideration is presently being which are subject to more detailed subsequent given to the future management of Boden Boo recommendations; Community Woodland and the potential development • A new picnic area close to the beach of this resource. • Targeted improvements to existing access points, Boden Boo represents an extensive woodland area paths and railings which also combines natural wetlands, grassland walks and a stretch of sandy beach along the River • Areas of tree planting and management Clyde. Despite this, the quality of existing paths varies considerably and the uses within the resource are limited.

Existing View of Beach CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 75

Boden Boo Community Woodland 76

Bowling Harbour and the Saltings Key Proposals The proposals here respond to the semi-natural The project includes the following key proposals; landscaping nature of the area. They seek to Bowling Harbour strengthen the leisure offer of Bowling Harbour and • Utilising an existing redundant railway bridge to the recreational and ecology function of the Saltings create a linear park walkway – helping to connect Local Nature Reserve. the harbour to the national cycle network.

• Open space and public realm work associated with the mouth of the harbour. This could include both a picnic area and children’s play area along with more formal public realm improvements.

• Areas of intensified tree planting to improve the setting of the canal.

The Saltings • A potential boardwalk through the existing nature reserve to improve the visitor experience.

• An area of wetland creation and reed bed planting

• Two potential wildlife viewing platforms, utilising Bowling Harbour existing unused slipways. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 77

Existing Views of Bowling Harbour Railway Bridge and The Saltings Nature Reserve

Existing View of Bowling Harbour 78

WATER

POTENTIAL WATERSIDE DEVELOPMENT

SEMI - NATURAL OPEN SPACE

MAIN ‘A’ ROADS SECONDARY LINK ROADS

OPEN SPACE

CANAL TOWPATH

EXISTING RAILWAY

GREEN NETWORK PROPOSALS

LINEAR PARK WALKWAY

POTENTIAL PLAY AREA A82 FORMALISED OPEN SPACE AND PUBLIC REALM WITH TREE CLEARING

ENHANCED PEDESTRIAN / CYCLE PATH

MARINA

VIEWING INTENSIFIED AREA TREE PLANTING JANUARY 2010 MUD FLATS KEY PROJECTS: BOWLING HARBOUR

CLYDE WATERFRONT

CONCEPT

RIVER CLYDE SCALE - 1:2000 @ A4

Bowling Harbour CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 79

WATER

THE SALTINGS, OLD KILPATRICK SEMI-NATURAL OPEN SPACE

OPEN SPACE A82 MAIN ‘A’ ROADS SECONDARY LINK ROADS

NCN - NATIONAL ROUTE

NCN - LINK

WDC CORE PATH STRATEGY

INDICATIVE EXISTING TREES

EXISTING RAILWAY

GREEN NETWORK PROPOSALS

POTENTIAL BOARDWALK

MOWN GRASS PATH

WETLAND / REED BED PLANTING

POTENTIAL VIEWING POINT

FORMALISED OPEN SPACE WITH SELECTIVE SCRUB CLEARING

JANUARY 2010

KEY PROJECTS: THE SALTINGS RIVER CLYDE CLYDE WATERFRONT

CONCEPT

SCALE - 1:2000 @ A4

A898

The Saltings Local Nature Reserve 80

Levengrove Park (and Dumbarton Town Centre) Proposals seek to prioritise improvements that could • Integration of Sandport Marina into the wider support Dumbarton Town Centre and strengthen parkland area with improvements to the existing its role as both a principal service centre and a marina environment sustainable residential location. Proposals are • On the east bank of the River Leven, a therefore urban in nature with formal public realm proposed linear park walkway connecting new improvements. Contemporary enhancements development areas within the town centre to Levengrove Park should attempt to create a greenspace of excellence helping to lift the image • Potential for a new footbridge providing a direct and perception of the town. connection between the park and town centre Key Proposals One of the key considerations is to ensure that the proposals for flood defence and the potential The project includes the following key proposals; new canal is integrated in a way which assists • Contemporary enhancements that upgrade this placemaking and improves the image and perception Victorian Park for the 21st Century, through of the town centre. Indicative cross sections are set focussed, co-ordinated installations out here to demonstrate how both proposals could potentially be incorporated. • An improved waterside promenade running along the perimeter of the park

• A proposed existing children’s play area, reusing n existing car parking area CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 81

EXISTING

WATER

LEVENGROVE PARK

SECONDARY LINK ROADS

EXISTING PEDESTRIAN LINKS

TOWN LANDMARKS

CENTRE RAILWAY PROPOSED CANAL

DUNBARTON TOWN CENTRE MASTERPLAN AND DESIGN FRAMEWORK POTENTIAL PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE

NEW DEVELOPMENT

PROPOSED SQUARE

GREEN NETWORK PROPOSALS POTENTIAL WATERSIDE DEVELOPMENT

SANDPOINT MARINA : ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENTS & INTEGRATION CHILDREN AND YOUND PERSON PLAY AREA/VIEWING AREA

STRATEGIC GREEN LINK

NEW PEDESTRIAN AND CYCLE LINK

LINEAR PARK WALKWAY

CONTEMPORARY WATERSIDE PROMENADE

ENHANCEMENTS POTENTIAL EXTENSION OF WATERSIDE PROMENADE

SANDPOINT MARINA JANUARY 2010 LEVENGROVE PARK KEY PROJECTS: LEVENGROVE PARK

DUMBARTON CLYDE FOOTBALL GROUND WATERFRONT

CONCEPT DUMBARTON CASTLE SCALE - 1:5000 @ A4

Dumbarton Town Centre and Levengrove Park Project Area 82

Dumbarton Town Centre and Levengrove Park Cross Section - Lomond Canal CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 83

Dumbarton Town Centre and Levengrove Park Cross Section - Flood Defence 84

Riverside Cycle Link and Signage Project Key Proposals SUSTRANS is the UK’s leading sustainable transport The project includes the following key proposals; charity. As part of their role, the organisation • Establishment of a riverside cycle link (National provides information on existing sustainable Cycle Route) between Glasgow Harbour and transport resources within the UK. The organisation Glasgow City Centre also identifies future opportunities for improvement of sustainable transport provision. Focusing on • Modify the Kelvin Link (also part of the National the Clyde Waterfront, SUSTRANS has identified Cycle Route) to run along the Kelvin Valley Park opportunities for future provision along the north and connect to the new riverside link bank of the river corridor. • Establish a network of signs along the Clyde We see the delivery of a riverside cycle link as an Walkway between Braehead and Boden Boo important part in ensuring that the Clyde Waterfront Community Woodland maximises opportunities in becoming a highly sustainable residential location, with good links to • Establish a network of signs along the Kelvin key employment locations such as Glasgow City Valley Park Centre. The existing National Cycle Route (Route 7) runs adjacent to the Clydeside Expressway, which is a busy four lane highway and the cycle link crosses this expressway at several large scale junctions. The first phase of the Riverside Cycle Link would be established between Ferryden Street and Stobcross Road connecting Glasgow Harbour and other residential locations to the wider National Cycle Network.

Finally, given the significant extent of the Clyde Waterfront and the numerous heritage, recreational, leisure and ecological assets available; assisting wayfinding remains an important component of the Green Network Strategy. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 85

Riverside Cycle Link – Phase 1 86

Delivery

This section emphasises the key role of delivering the Clyde Waterfront Green Network Strategy (GNS), translating the broad aims, objectives and proposals into a prioritised and programmed set of actions. The following represents the key issues in delivering the strategy:

• Promotion of the strategy 07 • Managing implementation and delivery • Delivering through the planning system

Delivery and • Delivering through improvements, management and maintenance

Implementation • Involving communities

• Resources for delivery CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 87

Promotion Management

Achieving the GNS vision is wholly reliant on the project delivery and funding to members of the Greenspaces are planned, designed and managed successful delivery of the identified priority projects. community thereby acting as a key facilitator. by a wide range of people and organisations and the It is important that the Clyde Waterfront Partnership strategy will need to influence others to act if it is to (CWP) endorse the strategy and continue to work • The CWP continued role in promoting, be delivered effectively. There is a real advantage that together to develop a range of mechanisms to deliver coordinating and managing events which help the CWP will continue to participate in the delivery, the strategic aspirations. The following mechanisms local communities learn about and celebrate the monitoring and review of the GNS. This builds must be adopted to ensure delivery of outputs on the waterfront’s greenspaces. ownership and responsibility for delivery. ground: • CWP providing a contact point and a “listening The CWP must retain its ‘steering’ role and be seen • Continued facilitation by the CWP through ear” in all matters connected with the range of as the overarching umbrella group which oversees provision of a strategic co–ordination role and projects which make up the strategic vision. the delivery of the action plan, but not the delivery links into other agencies. • CWP providing a receptive, helpful and efficient vehicle. The core group should remain a recognised feature of the CWP with a key role in monitoring the • Local Authority partners providing direct service to the public whilst being perceived as an delivery of the broad aims and stated objectives. The management and sourcing resources for honest broker. core group understands the local issues, priorities projects where no existing delivery mechanism is To maximise the effectiveness of the partnership, and agreed actions of the strategy and therefore identified. the strategy must not attempt to replicate existing should continue to remain committed to its delivery. • Glasgow and the Clyde Valley Green Network activity on the ground. The emphasis should be on Partnership (GCVGNP) providing expert advice on identifying the gaps and adding value to the process. 88

Delivering through the Delivering through improvement, Planning System management and maintenance Involving Communities Incorporating the GNS into the various Local The strategy should act as an effective management Community involvement and not-for-profit sectors Development Plans is important as it brings the tool. Many of the strategy actions will be delivered are a vital component in developing greenspace status of a statutory document which can: over time through refocusing resources for resources both in terms of in-kind support but management and maintenance, tackling priority also the ability to attract a wider pull of finance. • Protect sites from development and allocate new issues and making efficiency savings through Communities can provide an important resource sites where need is demonstrated improving management practices. by contributing additional labour, providing public • Identify whether there are any areas of open stewardship and assisting outreach initiatives. It is recognised that there are a range of innovative space providing functions that are no longer ways in which the management and maintenance People make projects and a common model adopted required and that could be used for fulfilling regimes can be altered to provide wider community in a number of similar locations has been the other open space functions benefits. The task for the group overseeing actions establishment of ‘friends groups’ or Trusts to guide, • Co-ordinate infrastructure including open will be to identify potential resources and bring manage and maintain urban greenspaces. A well space with new housing, employment and other projects forward for implementation. This should resourced voluntary body is well placed to take sole development be led by individual Local Authorities and be policy making and management responsibility for an based on consultation with community groups and area of greenspace, from a financial allocation for, or • Set the standard for open space provision and stakeholders in particular areas. assets endowed by a public sector land owner. management and the quality of the public realm in relation to new development Similarly, as a charitable organisation, a voluntary body is better positioned to draw down grants from • Provide the basis for negotiating developer grant making trusts as well as benefit from tax contributions to assist future funding exemptions and generate income from fundraising activities. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 89

Resources Projects need to be further developed to gain a • Income generating opportunities – commercial The GNS will provide the detailed framework more detailed assessment of the resources needed activities such as licensing, franchising, for supporting funding applications, providing against those available to deliver the strategy. It sponsorship, fees and fines the evidence that the project is a priority and is is also useful to estimate the cost of delivering supported by local people. • In-kind support from communities and charitable the entire strategy objectives to make the case for activities There is a wide range of national and local sources strategic commitments. This needs to be handled of funding and/or volunteer support available to help carefully, ensuring that costs are justified by a clear Local authority resources deliver the identified projects, depending on the area indication of the resulting improvement in quality. The management and maintenance of parks and and the type of project. The funding can be used for In light of public sector budget constraints, there is urban greenspaces are largely funded by local a range of activities and themes, including themes a requirement to further ‘prioritise’ the key projects councils. As owners of key assets, each Local beyond the development of greenspace, i.e, helping (shown in the Multi-Criterion Assessment below). Authority plays a key lead role in facilitating the to achieve health, education, heritage, sport, arts and delivery components of the strategy and action plan. Staff time and skills are often underestimated. community development objectives. Individual Local Authorities are legally responsible Sufficient human resources must be available or for many of the greenspaces and are well resourced Planning and development projects will run the risk of not being delivered on and experienced to lead on key projects. It is unlikely Planning agreements can fund the provision of time or to the quality required. Some of the principal that there will be significant public funding but greenspace in, or adjacent to, new residential and resources available to assist with the delivery of the Local Authorities play a vital role in facilitating commercial developments. A common delivery strategy are set out in Appendix A, these include: the development of the partnership approach. concept employed by local authorities, planning • Traditional LA funding – funded from a LA’s Management and maintenance must continue to be agreements, or developer contributions (Section 75 general revenue budget the focus of Local Authorities, and delivery of key Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act) relate projects will only be achieved in partnership with mainly to the funding of certain areas or development • Multi agency public sector funding – delivery of local stakeholders, multi-agencies and commercial space. cross cutting targets may be eligible for funding partners. Although it is likely that developer contributions from a range of partner agencies will be limited to certain areas, there is scope Multi agency public sector funding for ‘pooled’ Section 75 contributions towards the • Planning and development opportunities – A key component in delivering the green network strategic network which have wider regional benefits. probably the most used via planning conditions strategy is to develop opportunities for the joint It is unlikely that cross Local Authority projects can and Section 75 agreements to fund urban funding of initiatives with other partner organisations be funded in this way but a consistent approach to greenspace and contributions can be made through funding or Section 75 policy should be considered to ensure skills and expertise. that projects can be delivered on a like for like basis within the partner areas. 90

Summary Commercial Activities Each project presents a range of economic, A further and sustainable approach may be the environmental and social benefits. Collectively, the development of commercial activities such as sustainable development of prioritised projects catering operations within open space, where these presents an opportunity to further the renaissance of are likely to contribute to meeting user needs and the Clyde Waterfront. Managing project delivery and adding to the attractiveness of the open space. The implementation is the next stage of turning the GNS revenue funding should be ring-fenced to improving into reality. Partnership roles and responsibilities open space provision. need to be agreed and the CWP is best placed to provide a strategic co-ordination role. Support in kind Involving the community in the design, The finalised strategy and action plan must be implementation, monitoring and operating phases endorsed by the CWP, in doing so enabling a detailed of all forms of open space can bring wider benefits, action plan to be established. but should not be viewed as a cheap option. Artwork, logo design, and park and garden naming competitions/projects with children and young people are all good ways to stimulate creative thinking and generate interest and ownership. Art workshops engage people in designing and constructing artworks to improve local environments. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 91 92

Kelvingrove River Valley Park Richmond Park Improvements This project provides a green corridor that connects Richmond Park is a key piece of Oatland’s the substantial development that has occurred and is regeneration, one of Glasgow’s four ‘New planned within the area. Notably, the Valley Park will Settlements’ and a key investment area recognised play a key role linking the new Riverside Museum to in the Strategic Housing Investment Plan 2010/11 to other economic generators in and around the area. 2013/14. The regeneration, led by Gladedale focuses on family housing. To guide the development of this ‘flagship’ project the initial focus should be a refreshed Masterplan for the The focus on family units places added attention area. The Green Network Strategy Delivery Group on the need and role of a new park and sporting 08 should facilitate this in partnership with Glasgow City facilities. There are existing Section 75 clauses in Council. There should also be a focus to the potential the current Development Obligation but these are Next Steps economic activities towards the north linked to dependent on construction phases and sales. developments at Kelvingrove Park and Museum. There is a role for Glasgow City Council to liaise The significant development opportunities afforded with Gladedale, and their two RSL partners (Link by a River Valley Park suggests new developments and GHA) to assess which aspects of the park are encouraged to take an active role in its design enhancement offer the best economic and social and delivery, notably through Section 75 conditions. return. In doing so, enabling a revised plan based on Similarly, there are benefits to existing and a prioritised programme of investments. The Clyde committed developments and these ‘economic Waterfront Partnership plays an important role in actors’ should be encouraged to form a River Valley facilitating these discussions through highlighting Park Working Group to appraise the proposal. the strategic role the park enhancements play in the wider Clyde Green Network strategy. The development costs are expected to be significant and largely dependent on the outcome of design and The overall development costs are not prohibitive but delivery discussions. affordability should be built in as a key variable in devising the prioritisation programme. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 93

New Gorbals Riverside Yoker Riverside New Gorbals Riverside Masterplan, led by GHA, This project recognises the substantial progress to evaluate the success of the initial Linear Park is already well underway and Clyde Waterfront that Glasgow City Council has made in delivering concept and to agree a format in which the next Partnership should liaise with the design team the first phase of the Yoker Linear Park. The area phase can be developed. and Landscape Officer to present the role which has undergone considerable housing development The various components of the proposal suggest an the scheme plays in the wider Clyde Corridor. It and there is a requirement to ensure that the area action plan should be devised. The detailed action is recommended that GHA become part of the has attractive green linkages to and through the plan must present the method in which individual Delivery Group as they are an important stakeholder development. elements can be delivered, building on the lessons in a range of the identified projects. As Glasgow’s Much of the existing infrastructure has been learned and success of the initial investment. regeneration agency, they have access to funds developed through Section 75 obligations. Aspects of The action plan should include the role of various which can be used on specific schemes but also the development have been affected by the downturn partners, the structure of the partnership in terms to demonstrate and showcase the role of green and there is now an opportunity to reassess the of lead and support, design proposals, timescales, infrastructure in housing led regeneration schemes. linear park concept, in parallel with the National funding and procurement options and agreement on It is envisaged that a landscape allowance has Cycle Route and ongoing infrastructure proposal the social, environmental and economic objectives already been identified in the overall Masterplan and related to the Clyde crossing and Renfrew/Yoker. being addressed. the Clyde Waterfront Partnership is now in a position There are a range of green infrastructure As a project located in a regeneration area, the to liaise with GHA to develop a joined-up working investments and it is recommended that a meeting local community play a key role and a community approach on this and other related schemes. between Glasgow City Council, Strathclyde engagement strategy would be an important activity Passenger Transport and landowners is convened in establishing a deliverable action plan. 94

Pacific Quay and Festival Park Clydeside Community Park Rashielee Quay Pacific Quay has evolved into a dynamic new business The existing Clydeside Community Park remains Renfrewshire Council are currently producing a district with a focus for digital and media businesses. a relatively isolated and underused greenspace. masterplan for the continued development of Erskine The area hosts a significant level of high profile The area is in close proximity to the Golden Town Centre. The masterplan is also considering an companies which employ a substantial number of Jubilee Hospital and adjacent to some significant area of existing greenspace for future improvement employees. There are proposals for further marina development parcels identified in Clydebank URCs (Rashielee Quay) which is located within the development and linkages to the Govan Area Action Masterplan for the area. There is a need to raise floodplain. It is an appropriate opportunity to ensure Plan proposals. the profile of this underused asset which can be that the greenspace proposals are included in the achieved through involving the local community. The masterplan. In a period where investment is scarce, there is an scope for Section 75 and wider external funding is opportunity to promote the area through advancing There is scope to drawdown a range of external limited and the development should focus on an its environment and attractiveness. Attractive funding from environment facing grant funds organic approach, possibly through transferring the environments are a key feature in inward investment managed by SNH, RSPB and the Forestry ownership of the greenspace to a locally backed and GCC and Clyde Waterfront Partnership have a Commission, such as the Woods In and Around Trust, or Friends of Clydeside Community Park Trust. role in pump-priming the moth-balled investments Towns (WIAT) and Forestry for People (F4P) and showing an appetite for development by targeting A community led strategy and action plan should be initiatives. this core employment zone. led by West Dunbartonshire Council in partnership The proposals arising from Clyde Green Network with the URC. Clyde Waterfront Partnership has There is a requirement to revisit the existing Strategy should be presented by the Green Network a facilitation role. The local community should be Masterplan, perhaps as part of a design competition. Delivery Group to the masterplanning team to ensure encouraged to become involved in the Community Importantly this should be supported by existing they are aware of the refreshed wider context. As Park, including the physical but also event and businesses, such as BBC and STV. In doing so, part of the refreshed strategy this project has the sporting opportunities afforded by the proposal. raising its awareness and building on its heritage as ability to make a stronger case for external funding Glasgow’s Garden Festival Site. The community led approach presents a range of and the fundraising strategy may require some opportunities to drawdown wider community funding revision. The Clyde Waterfront Partnership is well positioned such as Fairer Scotland funding, Big Lottery Fund’s to develop and manage a design competition. Key Dynamic, Inclusive Communities Programme, anchor tenants should be approached to gauge their Awards for All, SAC’s Public Art Fund, Scottish initial views on a design competition. Community Foundation and Cash for Communities. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 95

Boden Boo Community Woodland Bowling Harbour and The Saltings Levengrove Park Stakeholder consultation with Renfrewshire Council British Waterways have led the development of Building on Dumbarton’s successful Town Centre has highlighted that the Forestry Commission the 140 acres of land on the north side of the Regeneration Fund award and linking to wider Scotland will take responsibility for the management Clyde, adjacent to Bowling, and in conjunction with regeneration masterplans, the proposals for of Boden Boo Community Woodland. The Forestry Clydeport. The area is ideally situated to attract new Levengrove Park and links to the town centre are of Commission have a strong track record in engaging residential and commercial development, including strategic regional importance. communities to enhance existing woodland assets in tourism further tourism infrastructure. However, Enhancing the town centre public realm, and perhaps a way which strengthens communities. there remain a number of considerable challenges more importantly, the linkages to the river and associated with the sunk investment required to The Forestry Commission have their own grants historic park, can play a vital role in levering new decontaminate the site. programme. The community-facing aspect of the private sector investment. Encouraging visitors scheme suggests a range of community funding The site, and the neighbouring Saltings, can be to the town and park as well as encouraging local such as Fairer Scotland funding, Big Lottery Fund’s promoted in phases and an important early phase people to stay and spend locally is a core component Dynamic, Inclusive Communities Programme, is to encourage partial use and the creation of a in encouraging new businesses into the town and Awards for All, SAC’s Public Art Fund, Scottish linear walkway and possible boardwalk. Encouraging supporting the growth of existing businesses. Community Foundation and Cash for Communities. community and visitor use into the wider site has Firms are attracted to investment opportunities the immediate benefit of attracting use, users and In many cases, the funding partners require evidence for a range of ‘push and pull’ factors but it is potential spend in the area. Greenspace improvement that the proposal are community led and therefore recognised that an attractive environment is a key will trigger a wider appreciation of this location it is recommended that a community engagement ‘pull’ consideration. As part of the Strathleven Green and will help unlock the significant barriers which strategy and action plan is developed. A range Network Strategy it is recommended that the Clyde currently challenge the sites. of community workshops should be organised. Waterfront keep a watching brief on this proposal as Events, including public art, health and wellness and A promotional strategy should be developed to it is best led by West Dunbartonshire Council. nature and environment related themes, should be recognise the role and future role of the area, promoted to raise the interest and also to generate focused on ensuring the area is promoted as place of possible commercial revenue streams. The Forestry high environmental sustainability. Commission Scotland grants programme offers This proposal is also part of the Strathleven Green potential funding streams for the projects, including Network Strategy and therefore it is recommended the Woods In and Around Towns (WIAT) and Forestry that both Delivery Groups have a meeting to prepare for People (F4P) initiatives. a joined and consistent approach to this core regeneration area. 96

Clyde Waterfront Cycle route Summary SUSTRANS has identified opportunities for future The Delivery Group is best positioned to develop a provision along the north bank of the river corridor. monitoring framework and communications strategy Further dialogue is required between SUSTRANS to ensure that the progress of the individual projects and the Delivery Group to develop a strategy for can be monitored and progress can be communicated investment for new routes and signage. There is between the project partners. The initial action plan a requirement to phase and prioritise investment should be used as an agenda for the Delivery Group according to need and cost. sessions.

The project is likely to be delivered over a number The action plan should be seen as a dynamic of years but an early first step is to agree a route framework and management tool which can and signage strategy which can then be costed and be utilised to prioritise resource, ensuring phased. SUSTRANS projects also rely on the support complimentary activities are fostered, duplication of volunteers and therefore the scheme should be avoided and economies of scale achieved. developed with local communities and cycling clubs. The action plan should be reviewed on a quarterly SUSTRANS obtains funding from national basis and evaluated annually. government and the Lottery but elements of the proposal could be sought through other routes open to communities and charities alike. Once the scheme is known, cost and fundraising strategy should be designed. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 97

Appendices A Recommended greenspace hierarchy B Sources of funding and resources 98

Recommended Greenspace Hierarchy

1. City Scale 3. Local

A site that attracts people from further afield than A site that generally serves the population of just the immediate communities. The two sites in the community in which it is located, and which this hierarchy are major city parks, Glasgow Green generally does not attract visitors from the wider city and Kelvingrove Park. It is generally large in scale, region. It tends to be medium in scale, with fewer provides a unique experience, is varied in character, characteristics of interest, designations or facilities and has a high level of facilities appropriate to than Level 2 sites. It will generally encompass local its typology. It will usually have a number of parks such as Yorkhill Park and Clyde View Park. It designations (sometimes of national or international may have primarily local designations associated importance) relating to its landscape, ecological or with it. Appendix A cultural value. 2. District

A site that attracts people from across the City in the main, differentiated primarily from City sites by having fewer visitors from further afield. It tends to be medium to large in scale, have characteristics of specific interest, and variety appropriate to its typology. Examples include Elder Park and the Forth & Clyde Canal. It may have less variety than Level 1 sites, and associated designations may be of a lower value. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 99

Potential Funding Sources Projects will seek to optimise the current source BIFFA Awards of funding for this sort of work, as well as Recognised as one of the most respected landfill existing resources. A number of external funding tax credit funded schemes, to date Biffaward has opportunities are summarised below. Each individual distributed £70,085,688 to 881 projects throughout project requires a funding raising strategy, and the UK. The fund offers three levels of support: the following sources provide a starting point • The Small Grants Scheme provides grants for external funding support. Other methods of between £250 and £5,000 for projects that enable fundraising include approaches to local businesses, communities to improve local amenities and to community fundraising and opportunities afforded by conserve wildlife and habitats. commercial developments.

Awards for All • The Main Grants Scheme grants between Appendix B Awards for All has been operated as a joint scheme £5,001 and £50,000 for Amenity projects that by the four lottery distributors: Sports Scotland, provide and improve community facilities to Scottish Arts Council, Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) act as mechanisms for recreation, sporting and Big Lottery Fund. HLF will no longer play a role achievement, lifelong learning and community in Awards for All but instead will use its existing involvement. In addition it supports projects that “Your Heritage” and “Young Roots” programmes increase or maintain Biodiversity. to ensure the continuation of small community • The Flagship Scheme offers grants between grants within the heritage sector. Awards for All £150,000 - £500,000 for larger projects that will continue to fund heritage projects up to £10k support regionally or nationally significant for small community groups after April 2009 but all voluntary sector led regeneration or biodiversity applications will need to very clearly demonstrate a projects that make a significant impact on the strong community focus. quality of life of the region.

There is a need to be a charity and registered with ENTRUST for specific wildlife/environmental habitat – partial funding with element from alternative sources given back to company. 100

Big Lottery Fund – Growing Community Assets Carnegie Trust - Young People’s Grants Council Budgets As part of Investing in Communities and launched Programme (UK) Existing Council Budgets and staff resource for in July 2010, Growing Community Assets is about The Carnegie UK Trust Young People’s Grants related work. This includes woodland work provided communities having more control and influence over Programme aims to support and promote young and support by the existing Biodiversity Woodland their own future through ownership of assets. These peoples participation in decision-making. Its focus and Arboriculture staff. Leisure & Communities have are usually physical assets, such as land, buildings is on involvement that is meaningful, benefits all a number of staff working directly or indirectly on or equipment, but may also include other types of participants and leads to sustainable developments woodland, greenspace and access projects. There asset such as energy. in young people’s participation. This programme are also a wide range of staff in other sections and focuses on developing skills for young people and departments of the Council who can assist in the Growing Community Assets will focus strongly on therefore could only be targeted at the projects which process of delivering the greenspace agenda. This tackling need. Projects must aim to achieve all of have a direct link to youth work. includes Area Community Regeneration Officers, these four outcomes: Education staff, Active lifestyles Co–ordinators and CashBack for communities fund 2008-2010 Arts Development staff. • Communities work together to own and develop The CashBack for Communities fund could help local assets. increase youth work events and activities in CSV Action Earth Campaign recognised areas of multiple deprivation, involving • Communities are sustainable and improve their Although small allocations, these are straight young people of between 10 and 19 years of age. This economic, environmental and social future forward applications and could be led by community fund focuses on young people and therefore could through the ownership and development of local representatives. Two different grants are available only be targeted towards projects which have a direct assets. to groups of volunteers who are carrying out local link to supporting the development of young people. conservation/ environment projects or who are • Communities develop skills and knowledge improving biodiversity in Scotland: Community Cash Awards through the ownership and development of local Young people aged 14-25 can apply for awards assets. • SNH Biodiversity Awards of £250 support between £250 and £5,000 to help tackle the dangers and encourage groups that carry practical • Communities overcome disadvantage of drugs, crime and play a positive role in their environmental projects, creating or upgrading and inequality through the ownership and community. The Royal Bank of Scotland Community wildlife habitats or improving the life of development of local assets. Cash Awards will see £1 million of grants being Scotland’s wildlife. distributed by youth charity, The Prince’s Trust. The key focus is on youth work projects and therefore an • CSV Action Earth awards of £50 are also available identified local youth project would act as the lead to help projects to purchase plants, tools and beneficiary although support could be sourced from materials and to cover volunteer expenses. partner agencies. This covers projects of all sizes and can cover community clear ups, litter picks and a range of other environmental projects. CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 101

Esmee Fairbairn Foundation biodiversity grants Go4 Volunteering Mark Leonard Trust The Esmee Fairbairn Foundation has announced that The majority of voluntary organisations in Scotland Not-for-profit organisations and organisations with it has changed the funding criteria for its Biodiversity depend on volunteers for the services they deliver, a charitable purpose can apply for funding from this funding scheme. Under the Biodiversity strand a the activities they run and the huge range of work trust which focuses on environmental education total of £3 million will be available in grants until they carry out in their local communities. Go4 in the UK. In particular the Trust seeks to support December 2010. Grants will be available for projects Volunteering helps the management committees projects that focus on finding practical ways of that develop a greater knowledge and understanding and staff of local grassroots organisations to build involving children and young adults. Applications to of certain habitats and their associated species. The their skills around recruiting and supporting their the Trust can be submitted at any time and would Foundation will consider applications from research volunteers. require the role of a local school to develop an area organisations, practical conservation charities and for educational purposes. Government funds for the third sector voluntary nature societies. Applications can be The Scottish Government’s Third Sector Enterprise Playground Partnerships submitted at any time. Fund was launched in December 2009 and joins £250 - £10,000 awarded to help schools improve their Funding to strengthen community capacity the Social Entrepreneurs Fund and the Scottish school grounds: therefore could be targeted if a local Three Scottish voluntary organisations will share Investment Fund as a trio of support for the sector. school expressed interest. £1.1million from the Big Lottery Fund Dynamic, The Third Sector Enterprise Fund offers between Public Art Fund Inclusive Communities Programme for projects £25,000 and £100,000 to organisations that want The Public Art Fund, operated by the Scottish Arts aiming to strengthen communities. The Scottish to build their capacity, capability and financial Council, runs an open application scheme until Community Development Centre will work with sustainability. This fund is for capacity building 31 January 2009, with no deadlines. The scope of 50 community groups between 2009 and 2014 support and is for existing social enterprises and not public art projects supported has been broadened to through its lottery-backed Achieving Community for new social enterprises, therefore an appropriate include temporary, permanent, cross-artform and Empowerment (ACE) programme, while the Scottish lead applicant would need to be identified. multidisciplinary work. The Public Art Fund is aimed Community Foundation will work with a small Links Foundation at attracting original proposals – from a broad range number of new community groups as part of its The Links Foundation funds a wide range of of organisations – to produce exciting and innovative Our Community, Our Future programme. Finally, community-based projects in the UK. All applications public art across Scotland. Applications must be Forward Scotland has been awarded funding of over must show the positive impact a project could have submitted by Sept 2010 for award in March 2011. £400,000 to deliver a community empowerment on a community. There is no set amount, but average programme for sustainability. The role of these Registered Social Landlords (funding awards are around £20,000. Funding can be for new programmes is to provide capacity building, business application / in kind) or existing projects and can help meet capital and planning and organisational support. As potentially key regeneration partners, RSLs are revenue costs. Applications are considered 3 times likely to have access to resource, expertise and per year. budget to allocate to key identified projects. To maximise public sector leverage it is recommended 102

that certain projects are progressed in partnership Scottish Natural Heritage Grant Schemes Forestry for People Challenge Fund covers all with RSLs, notably those located in or adjacent Scottish Natural Heritage continues to be able to Scotland, including the WIAT areas. It supports local to housing areas. Achieving funding support from offer grant support for a wide range of urban and involvement in woodland projects for health, learning RSLS and statutory public agencies will increase rural projects that deliver outcomes linked to the and strengthening communities and therefore is the opportunities from drawing down sources from SNH Corporate Strategy. If you are seeking a grant directly associated with the community woodland wider/ national programmes and funding bodies. of less than £10,000, you can apply at any time. proposals. Applications for grants of £10,000 or more are Ryklow Charitable Trust Viridor Landfill Tax Credits assessed in two competitive funding rounds each The Ryklow Trust supports organisations and Accessing Landfill tax can be quite complex. year. Note that due to current levels of demand, individuals involved in activities that include However, the money can be used to pay for SNH will not be accepting new applications for environment and conservation. The Conservation improvements to greenspaces. Forward Scotland funding in 2010-11. priority is for activities that positively impact on administer the Viridor Landfill Tax programme that natural species, landscapes and environmental Scottish Rural Development Programme 2007- will pay up to £20,000 and no more than 75% of total resources (e.g. a wildlife garden involving local 2013 project costs. In addition, a third party (neither the school / afterschool club /nursery). The SRDP is a programme of economic, applicant nor Viridor) must pay an extra 10% of the environmental and social measures, worth some £1.5 total grant to Viridor to release the money. Scottish Community Foundation billion, designed to develop rural Scotland from 2007 The Scottish Community Foundation general grants to 2013. Individuals and groups may seek support to Voluntary Action Fund programme makes grants to a broad cross section The Voluntary Action Fund (VAF) is an independent help deliver the Government’s strategic objectives of constituted groups involved in social welfare and grant-making trust, which invests in voluntary in rural Scotland. The “Woodlands In and Around community development activities. Community and community based organisations across Towns” and “Forestry for People” Challenge Funds Grants are one off sums of up to £5,000. The majority Scotland. The funding and support provided enables are key sources and operate across Scotland and aim of the funding is directed at locally based work organisations to undertake projects that challenge to improve the condition of existing woodlands for the carried out, and often initiated, by members of that inequalities and overcome barriers to being involved benefit of local people (see below). local community. Therefore only applications from in community life. VAF receives funding from the smaller organisations that have an income of less Support for Woodland Projects Scottish Government to support voluntary and than £250,000 per annum are considered. Groups Funding for local woodland projects is available community organisations in taking forward social can apply for either a Small Grant (up to £1,000) or through the Local Forestry Challenge Funds. Two change. The grant programmes are linked by the a Main Grant (up to £5,000) from this programme. funds are available: Woods In and Around Towns common threads of social inclusion and support Express Grants are available to small community (WIAT), and Forestry for People. The WIAT Challenge for organisations to become stronger. Each grant groups looking for funding of up to £2,000. The Fund aims to bring urban woodland into sustainable programme has its individual criteria and priorities scheme has a straightforward application process, management and improve recreation facilitates by as well as a direct link to government policy .This and a short turnaround time. carrying out an agreed programme of work. The programme is targeted at the most excluded CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 103

members and communities of society and therefore should focus on groups which are amongst those hardest reach groups and therefore may be more linked to social rather than physical outcomes.

Water Environment Restoration Fund SEPA is offering funding to restore the condition of Scotland’s water environment and to support partnership projects. Projects must aim to deliver improvements to wetlands, rivers, lochs, ponds, estuaries or coasts and where possible deliver a wider range of environmental, social and economic benefits. Projects seeking less than £5,000 from the fund can submit an application at any time. 104 CLYDE WATERFRONT GREEN NETWORK STRATEGY 105

Clyde Waterfront Green Network Strategy