[james73]

£2m community hub for city’s ‘forgotten’ park (Evening Times)



NEW life is being breathed into one of Glasgow's "forgotten" parks.

Elder Park in Govan opened in 1855 but local people insist it has been virtually
ignored for many years. All that is about to change as a range of new ventures
are either under way or in the pipeline.

The largest is a £2million gardening and healthy living project planned by
Linthouse Housing Association. It involves transforming a derelict former
B-listed farmhouse, believed to be the oldest building in Govan, in the park
into a community hub.

Ingrid Campbell, Linthouse Urban Village co-ordinator, said: "The city council
approached the housing association and asked us if there was anything we
could do with the farmhouse.

"We've been working on a proposal for two years which involves reinstating
the building to its former glory."

The plans include a small museum with a display of local artefacts, a meeting
room, office space, a botanical glasshouse and a family-friendly cafe with play
area, and toilets.

One of the outhouses, which will have a roof garden, would have seven work
spaces aimed at creative or community activities. And there will be a market
garden area with polytunnels and raised beds which would be run by local
organisations involved in community regeneration, local groups or volunteers.

There will also be a children's secret garden or a sensory garden and an
orchard garden, while a paved central courtyard will provide a space for
events such as a Christmas market.

The housing association hopes the Lottery and Historic Scotland will help
fund the work.



James H

[Stuball]

And like magic... some closer pictures