Crown Street Regeneration Project, Glasgow

The regeneration of the Crown Street area of Glasgow has created a highly liveable neighbourhood with well-placed community facilities and attractive public spaces. The area was re-developed after the demolition of tower blocks in the late 1980s.

The involvement of both existing and new residents was a requirement throughout the development process, and was particularly important in overcoming the unpopular image of the area and restoring confidence. The New Gorbals Housing Association has located its offices on Crown Street to provide an accessible source of information and support for residents. This is credited with the high levels of satisfaction in the social housing. A trust has been established to manage the maintenance of the social housing blocks and each block also has a dedicated residents association.

The neighbourhood has a strong focus on liveability, with a range of independent shops, community facilities and green open spaces serving the neighbourhood. A flagship library has been introduced on the High Street, a former church has been converted into a well used community centre and communal gardens and small parks provide plenty of space for young children. The area has rapidly developed a strong sense of community, despite the comprehensive redevelopment which has taken place. Approximately 20% of current residents are former Gorbals inhabitants thanks to a programme designed specifically to re-house those with family or other connections in the area.

However, Crown Street currently appears rather isolated from the wider area in terms of vehicular and, to a lesser extent, pedestrian access. The original master plan intended the retention of the existing road connections to provide permeability through the site, but concerns regarding 'rat runs' through the area, raised during consultation, resulted in a more contained design. This containment effectively disconnects the high street environment of Crown Street from the surrounding area so that the businesses are able to serve only the local residents since they do not benefit from passing trade.