A new community green space inspired by local school pupils has officially opened in Dalmarnock in Glasgow’s east end.
The park, named Pigeon Park, was selected through a public poll following name suggestions gathered from local primary schools in Clyde Gateway. The winning name was put forward by a pupil at Riverbank Primary.
The park was officially opened by Team Scotland Commonwealth Games gymnast Pavel Karnejenko. Historian Sir Tom Devine also attended the event. The only scholar to be knighted for services to Scottish history and a recipient of the Royal Medal, he delivered remarks celebrating Dalmarnock’s rich heritage and the progress being made in its regeneration.
Delivered by Clyde Gateway in partnership with Glasgow City Council, the park forms part of ongoing efforts to regenerate and enhance the east end community.
Located beside Dalmarnock Station, Pigeon Park transforms a previously vacant site into a vibrant public space. Designed by landscape architects LUC, the pocket park includes a children’s play area, open green space, community growing areas, new pathways, seating, planting, and biodiversity features.
The design also pays homage to the site’s industrial heritage, incorporating references to the area’s former gasometer through its geometric layout and landscaping.
The £1.05 million project was funded through Glasgow City Council’s Vacant and Derelict Land Fund alongside investment from Clyde Gateway.
Niki Spence, head of sustainable communities at Clyde Gateway, said, “Pigeon Park is a great example of regeneration creating spaces that people can really connect with, while also celebrating the area’s identity and history. This site was previously lying vacant, and it’s now been transformed into an attractive and welcoming green space for the whole community to enjoy. It’s especially nice that local young people helped shape the project, right down to choosing the name, which gives the park a real community feel.”
Rob Booth, chief executive at LUC, added, “We are proud to have supported Clyde Gateway and Glasgow City Council in delivering this important regeneration project. Pigeon Park has been carefully designed to create a welcoming and inclusive space that offers something for everyone. Throughout the design process, it was important to respect and celebrate the site’s unique history, creating a lasting asset that future generations can enjoy.”
