GCV Green Network
Connecting Our Quality Spaces

The greenspaces in the Gartloch Gartcosh area will come under intense development pressure over the coming decade. The Glasgow and Clyde Valley Structure Plan (2006) indicates that the area has the potential to accommodate up to 4,500 new homes, and both Glasgow City Council and North Lanarkshire Council have identified potential Community Growth Areas (CGAs) in their Local Development Plans.

In recognition of the value of the Gartcosh/Gartloch area as a unique natural resource for the surrounding communities and wider region, the SDP commissioned a Site Selection and Development Guidance study to investigate how to maximise the green network potential of the area, whilst also accommodating appropriate development in suitable locations within the identified CGAs.

The study was completed in 2010. It examines open space, landscape, ecology, flooding and SUDS issues in order to identify sites with the potential to accommodate appropriate forms of development. It also provides design principles and guidance for their future development, seeking to balance the complex relationship between environmental, ecological, and physical considerations and create a quality environment which integrates green networks into the CGAs.

The area’s complex hydrology is one of the most significant development issues at Gartcosh Gartloch. Ensuring that development does not damage, and where possible enhances, existing wetland networks is a priority. To help inform more sustainable water management a detailed Hydrology study is now underway.

The study will also underpin the development of more detailed planning guidance and masterplans for each of CGAs. It has also been used to inform the development of a vision and masterplan for a new Wetland Park at Gartcosh Gartloch.