Glasgow Claypits formally opened to the public last week. Local residents, community groups, politicians and funders gathered for a day of outdoor activities to mark the occasion. Activities on the day included paddleboarding, kayaking, tree planting, live music, guided walks, and a formal opening ceremony.

LUC worked with Scottish Canals and partners on this award-winning project for a number of years. Based on extensive community and stakeholder engagement, we initially provided an Access and Environmental Improvements Strategy for the wider canal corridor, and a Vision and Development Framework for the area between Applecross and Firhill Basins.

We then led the development of the Claypits Masterplan and subsequent design work for an area covering 17 hectares. LUC thereafter acted as NEC Project Manager and Principal Designer during construction.

The Claypits is now partially designated as a Local Nature Reserve having been formally designated as Vacant and Derelict Land. It will support the health and wellbeing of local disadvantaged communities by improving access to an underutilised green space and encouraging activity through walking, cycling and play. It will be an important semi-natural green space for 75,000 local residents that live within 20 minutes walk of the site.

The project features new footpaths and cycle paths, bridges and boardwalks, viewpoints, play and activity components, and woodland planting. It has also incorporated significant SUDS and utility infrastructure to help support development of housing in adjacent communities including residential moorings on the canal.

The Claypits hosts significant wildlife populations, including roe deer, peregrine falcons, whitethroat warblers, water rail, moths and butterflies.

The total value of construction across the project was nearly £7million.

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