Projects

Location

Glasgow City Centre, Laurieston

Description

The Laurieston Local Development Strategy (LDS) represents a significant milestone in the process of transformation and regeneration of the central area of Glasgow. The plans have been formulated through an extensive process of consultation and negotiation, and present a shared vision of how residents and stakeholders envisage the future development of the area. The urban design strategy has taken a ‘best practice’ approach, exploring the opportunities to remedy the mistakes of the 1960s that have blighted Laurieston. It seeks to knit back this part of the city into the surrounding neighbourhoods. The Laurieston development aims to transform perceptions and regenerate the housing market in the area, whilst providing a full range of the highest quality affordable housing.

The Laurieston LDS has been the subject of extensive community and stakeholder consultation. The urban design and mix of uses presented in the strategy represents the culmination of a lengthy process of engagement and discussion, and an agreed and shared vision of the future development and regeneration of Laurieston.

At the heart of the plan is the recognition of the need to re-connect this part of central Glasgow with its neighbouring areas of Crown Street, Tradeston, residential areas to the south, and the city centre, as well as strengthen the relationship with the River Clyde corridor. The proposed development uses the clues from the past to inform the future strategy, recovering the character of the Laurieston neighbourhood through the reintroduction of the historic street pattern. The major elements of the Laurieston LDS are:

• The reinstatement of an ‘urban grid’ linking the area to the city centre, Crown Street, and Tradeston;
• The reinstatement of the Gorbals Cross as a historical marker of Laurieston and Hutchesontown;
• The creation of a new ‘green city park’ at the heart of the development. This builds on the concept of crescents introduced in Crown Street and acts as a focus for high density living and potential educational functions;
• The regeneration of Bridge Street/Eglington Street as a new local high-street and transportation hub, including proposals for a new bus and rail interchange with associated commercial, retail and residential uses around;
• The development of a new ‘community spine’ from Cleland Street to Eglington Street connecting existing retail & leisure facilities (Crown Street) to future educational, health, social and public transport facilities.

As well as over 1,700 homes, scope has been identified for over 30,000m² of commercial space, community facilities and shops. The plans will be implemented in phases working with private development partners.

Current status

Outline design complete. Progressing approvals and implementation planning.

Timescale

Long-term project

Lead partner

Glasgow City Council

Other partners

Glasgow Housing Association; Scottish Enterprise Glasgow; Communities Scotland; private developers.

Project team

Urban Initiatives, Turner and Townsend

Contact details

Brian Fitch, Scottish Enterprise, 0141 204 1111, brian.fitch@scotent.co.uk