Landscape Statement – Vision

The Glasgow branch of the Forth and Clyde Canal is located 1km north of the city centre. It meanders through various disadvantaged communities including Woodside, Firhill and Hamiltonhill. These communities lie within the 15% Scottish Index Multiple Deprivation most deprived areas in Scotland and suffer from some of the country’s worst health statistics. The quality of open space in these communities was poor. Many residents felt disconnected from other parts of the city and were rarely able to access and enjoy the benefits of natural or semi-natural environments.

The Claypits is a large 17ha area of post-industrial site that straddles the canal. It was designated as ‘Vacant and Derelict Land’, and formed a significant barrier to movement between adjacent communities and their respective facilities. Perimeter security fencing, steep topography and anti-social behaviour discouraged access and use. It was perceived by many as unsafe with much of the site also contaminated. Nevertheless, members of the local community recognised the site’s untapped potential as a wildlife haven, its wild ‘green’ character, and its elevated views across city.

In 2014 a partnership between Scottish Canals and Glasgow City Council appointed LUC to lead a design Charrette, to work collaboratively with members of the local community and stakeholder groups to establish a shared vison, a cohesive development framework, and Green Infrastructure masterplan for the Claypits site. The main aim was to explore the site’s potential in terms of what a revitalised and multifunctional greenspace could offer in terms of contributing to wider sustainable development.

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How does this project deliver the principles of the charter?

1. Collaboration

The Claypits project is a testament to the success of collaborative design and community engagement in regenerating post-industrial land. Led by LUC, the project began with an intensive Charrette involving the Glasgow Canal Regeneration Partnership, local communities, and multiple stakeholders to develop a shared vision and Green Infrastructure Masterplan. The collaborative process ensured community aspirations were embedded in every stage, from strategic design principles to detailed construction. LUC coordinated a multi-disciplinary team of ecologists, engineers, heritage consultants, and artists to address the site’s challenges holistically. Despite the complexities of managing funding from multiple sources and delivering work through 14 contracts, the collaboration resulted in a unified and impactful project. The Claypits is now a cherished greenspace that reflects the collective efforts of all involved.

2. Dynamism

Transforming the Claypits from a derelict industrial site into Glasgow’s only inner-city Local Nature Reserve showcases the project’s dynamism. LUC overcame significant challenges, including steep topography, contaminated land, and redundant canal infrastructure. Contaminated areas were capped with recycled on-site materials, and historic canal features were repaired and repurposed for leisure and ecological uses. The design embraced the site’s unique wild character, integrating 1.5km of new paths, bridges, and boardwalks to improve access while revealing key views. The Claypits dynamically addressed ecological, social, and connectivity needs, creating a vibrant, multi-functional greenspace. The Claypits is more than just a static park; it is a vibrant, multifunctional space that continuously evolves to meet the needs of the community. It provides educational opportunities, fosters biodiversity, and contributes significantly to creating local 20-minute neighbourhoods.

3. Diversity

The Claypits project celebrates diversity in both its ecological design and social inclusivity. Ecologically, the site has been transformed into a rich mosaic of habitats, providing a sanctuary for diverse species, including roe deer, otters, peregrine falcons, and numerous birds and insects. Over 8,000 trees were planted, enhancing biodiversity and creating a vibrant natural environment that accommodates varied wildlife. The project also fosters social diversity by improving accessibility for people from all backgrounds. Its design prioritises inclusivity, ensuring safe access for residents from nearby disadvantaged communities and integrating features such as pedestrian and cycle pathways, play areas, and educational spaces. The wide range of activities, including birdwatching tours, school visits, and community events, promotes engagement with the site across all age groups and demographics. The creation of a Local Nature Reserve, now recognized as Glasgow’s only inner-city nature reserve, offers a valuable space for leisure, education, and recreation, benefiting people from all walks of life. The Claypits serve as a model of how landscape design can support both ecological diversity and social inclusivity, offering a sustainable and vibrant space for future generations.

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What's Next

The Claypits Local Nature Reserve is now activity managed by multiple organisations in partnership. Scottish Canals are responsible for structures such as bridges and  boardwalks whereas Scottish Water maintain the SUDS infrastructure. Glasgow City Council maintain an area of the site within their ownership known as ‘The Garscube Link’. The remainder of the site is managed and maintained by a volunteer management group comprising enthusiastic individuals from the local community. The group aims to work with others to protect and enhance the wildlife that live within the Claypits as well as maintaining  this important place for the local communities and visitors. The management group also host regular events such as school visits,  nature walks and litter picks. They also host a range of events with the partners from art related activities to wildlife monitoring and habitat care.

More about this project

Image Credits:

LUC