THREE Govan-based housing associations have warmly welcomed the opening of the Govan-Partick Bridge.
Elderpark Housing, Govan Housing Association and Linthouse Housing Association hailed the structure, built by Farrans Construction, as ‘a massive step forward’ in the regeneration of their communities.
Members of the public began crossing the bridge following a weekend of festivities which kicked off on Saturday.
The £29.5million Glasgow City Region City Deal project – funded by the Scottish and UK Governments – re-establishes the historic connection between Govan and Partick, with the bridge crossing between Water Row, Govan and Pointhouse Quay on the north bank of the river.
Linthouse, Govan and Elderpark are all engaged in community regeneration. Of particular note is their housebuilding activity providing affordable homes in Govan. Adjacent to the Govan exit of the bridge, Govan Housing Association has completed a development of 92 homes at Water Row which enhances the appearance of Govan Cross.
Linthouse’s latest housing development transformed the derelict former Drumyone primary school into 49 new homes at Cromdale Square. Elsewhere, Linthouse is to deliver 37 new homes and cottage flats on the site of the derelict Davislea care home off Langlands Road. The work to demolish the care home will start this year.
Earlier this year, Elderpark announced plans for 43 affordable homes in two new buildings at Elderpark Street and Nimmo Drive.
All three housing providers had stalls at the bridge festivities with free giveaways, describing the occasion as an opportunity to engage with tenants visiting the bridge for the first time.
A spokesperson for all three housing associations said, “New housing is crucial to the ongoing regeneration of Govan and we are proud to be playing our part in this exciting process. We applaud the efforts of so many partners working hand in hand for the good of the community and the new bridge is a shining example of what can be achieved with large scale regeneration projects.”