Derelict land near the M8 to the north of Glasgow could be converted into events space, with a tool library, bike workshop and growing areas.
Agile City, a community interest company, has asked Glasgow City Council for permission to develop a 'gap site' on Civic Street - which has been vacant for 15 years.
The plans include repurposing four shipping containers for use by Glasgow Tool Library, Bike for Good, as a community project space and for storage.
There would be a yard area for events and workshops and new planting, pathways and signs to create a “more welcoming” environment.
It is described as a “meanwhile use” project which would last no longer than five years while the applicant develops a longer-term strategy and raises funds.
Non-profit group Agile City operates Civic House, which has been developed into a canteen, workspace and venue at Speirs Lock.
The canteen cooks and sells healthy vegan food and staff host workshops to “highlight concerns over the environmental impact of intensive meat and dairy farming”.
The applicant wants to develop these projects by create growing spaces.
The plans state: “The wider area around the site is currently home to a wide range of cultural, educational and industrial organisations that give a rich and diverse character to the area.
“This dynamic community means that there is a local audience for the cultural and social aspects of the project and any connectivity improvements would have a positive impact on the ability for people to complete more everyday active travel journeys.”
The proposals include a depot for the Glasgow Tool library, which lends recycled tools to local groups and would run skills development events, and for Bike For Good, a cycle workshop which would have space to run classes and guided cycle rides.
The community space would provide a low-cost or free area for individuals or groups to hold meetings, events and projects.
Bike storage would be provided, and derelict land would be converted into “active green space” and a “gateway” to the canal network.
New residential developments, either planned or under construction, to the north of the site will mean more residents passing through who “may want to interact with the programmes of activity proposed”, the plans add.
“It sits just north of one of the few crossings under the M8 and as such is a key piece in a wider travel network.
“It is also at a point of disruption caused by the construction of the motorway, a historic fragment that survived the large clearances of the city grid.”
Other ideas include a ‘green-laboratory’ for experimenting with recycled construction materials and structures and an outdoor classroom.
The applicant hopes to host a range of activities from local organisations, including live music, talks, outdoor cinema and food events.
