A £250 million regeneration is set to transform Sighthill in Glasgow.
Due for completion by 2020, one of the largest urban regeneration projects of its kind outside of London will see an area equivalent in size to 60 football fields welcome hundreds of new homes, a new school campus and an iconic pedestrian bridge – providing improved connections across the M8 to the near-by city centre. Extensive remediation will also address land contamination, a result of the area’s industrial past, bringing environmental improvements, high-quality greenspace, allotments and parkland.
Project Manager, Jackie Harvey said: “At its’ heart, this project is about people. Ongoing engagement continues to be vital in supporting and involving the established and growing local community which is going through a long period of change.”
Activities underway since 2015 include drop-in sessions, newsletters and a community-led arts initiative. Community benefits from contractors have also supported kayaking lessons at the near-by Pinkston Water Sport Centre and the design of an outdoor space for the Sighthill Nursery.
Continued Jackie: “Our recently appointed housing developer, Keepmoat Homes, has committed to delivering an exemplar community benefits programme. This includes 62 new jobs through modern apprenticeships, graduates and new entrants; 45 construction jobs; support for 46 existing apprenticeships; and 82 work placements.”
The programme also involves a commitment to a minimum value in sub-contracts to SMEs and social enterprises; events to support the supply chain; the support of 10 disadvantaged groups over a seven-year period and funding for community initiatives, digital inclusion and a local development trust.