Draft masterplan unveiled to regenerate Glasgow's North Laurieston

Glasgow City Council could use statutory powers to bring decaying heritage buildings back into use as part of a draft plan to regenerate the North Laurieston part of the city.

The proposals also focus on re-establishing transport links between the area and the rest of the city, and creating a "vibrant neighbourhood" along the south bank.

Other goals include "revitalising existing heritage assets, streets and public spaces" in the area and tackling "pervasive environmental decay" across the region.

A public consultation into the plan will last for six weeks, across May and June.

George Gillespie, Glasgow City Council's executive director for neighbourhoods, regeneration and sustainability, said the area was filled with tremendous potential and could become a thriving destination in time.

He added: "The masterplan will drive the redevelopment of vacant land and buildings to bring real benefit to the local community.

"The regeneration of the North Laurieston District will be the 'last piece in the jigsaw' that connects to - and complements - the successful transformation of neighbouring areas."

Key proposals include bringing vacant buildings - including many listed properties on Carlton Place - back into productive use.

The council stated it would do this by working with owners on how to manage and enhance heritage buildings, and if needed use statutory powers to ensure their potential is realised.

The masterplan also lists improving the quality and attractiveness of local streets and spaces to tackle what the council describe as "pervasive environmental decay" in the area; and redeveloping vacant gap sites.

Initial work will firstly focus on infrastructure, as the local authority believes improving the quality of the public realm will help attract interest from investors and developers.

The draft plan has been developed in a partnership between Glasgow City Council and New Gorbals Housing Association and was prepared by consultants Elder & Cannon Architects.