PLANS to transform Glasgow’s vacant Meat Market site into a multi-use space and linear park have been boosted by a £4.486 million city deal grant.
The funding will go to the Meat Market Regeneration Community Interest Company (CIC) – the organisation behind the redevelopment of the historic site in Bellgrove which has lain dormant since the 1990s.
The derelict Victorian sheds will be developed into a flexible site to include sports facilities, a bar and bistro, event space, a learning centre and an enterprise incubator to support small businesses.
A community growing space is also planned, and the B-Listed Meat Market Superintendent’s House will be stabilised ahead of its future development as an active travel hub.
Scottish Government deputy first minister, Kate Forbes, said, “Building on investment we have already made, we are contributing £5.6 million to this project to provide a bustling hub in the heart of Glasgow’s East End where people can shop, work and socialise. This adds to the work we are supporting to transform disused land across the east end into places where people can live, businesses can invest, and communities are able to thrive.
“To create jobs and tackle poverty, the Scottish Government is providing £62.15 million towards regeneration projects over the course of this financial year. These initiatives will help to revitalise town centres, derelict sites and green spaces to benefit people across Scotland.”
UK Government Scotland office minister, Kirsty McNeill, added, “I’m delighted that £1.9 million UK Government funding will help transform this derelict Glasgow site into a thriving hub for community, sport and local businesses. This is our Plan for Change in action – investment to drive economic growth and improve lives by building a fairer country with equal opportunities for all. By genuine partnership working with the Scottish Government and local partners here and across Scotland we will deliver a decade of national renewal.”
Councillor Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council and chair of Glasgow City Region Cabinet, commented, “I am delighted that city deal funding will contribute toward this fantastic project which will see heritage assets brought back into positive use and the transformation of this key site which has lain dormant for many years.
“Re-imagining the listed Meat Market sheds into a flexible, accessible space for communities and businesses will deliver both local and wider benefits, whilst the new linear park running through the site will improve its connectivity to the city centre and wider neighbourhood, and provide attractive, safer routes that encourage more people to walk, wheel and cycle.”
