Plea for volunteers to transform space into Baillieston community garden
The site was a hotspot for antisocial behaviour before a local landscaper and charity took it on
Work is underway to transform a formerly derelict plot in Baillieston into a vibrant community garden - but locals are being urged to get involved.
The project, being spearheaded by charity Brighter Baillieston, is taking the former demonstration garden behind Iceland on Main Street on a restorative journey.
Once an "outdated jungle" of weeds and a "drinking den" for youths, the plot is now nearing completion with paving, picnic benches, raised planters and benches.
There will also be a custom-built pergola to help collect water for growing plants, fruit and vegetables.
The groups behind the transformation hope the area can now be used by community groups, schools and nurseries as a "sanctuary".
Local landscapers
The work is being completed by local landscaping company, All Nu Landscapes, free of charge in what bosses say is a way to "give back" to the community.
Other businesses across Glasgow and the west are also getting behind the project - MKM Airdrie branch provided all materials for cost price, meaning work can be completed as cheaply as possible.
Funding from Glasgow City Council's Let's Grow Together scheme is also subsidising some of the costs.
Help required
The project started during Covid-19 lockdown, but since people have returned to work, Brighter Baillieston is appealing for the community to volunteer.
Barbara McLaughlin from the charity said: "It was a bit of a drinking den, and we've found a few needles in the past.
"We were very wary of letting people come in - schools and nurseries wanted to utilise this space but we wanted to make sure it was safe first.
"It's going to take a lot of maintenance, it's a bit weedy at the moment.
"But many hands make light work, and even if people just come down for an hour, the sooner we can knock it into shape.
"It's about people taking ownership of their community, and taking some pride in it, too.
"We'll keep this as a lovely place for people to come and sit, socialise and have a chinwag, and more than that.
"We have three raised beds at the moment for growing, and funding for more. So, this will be really great for the community in Baillieston."
'It's about giving back'
Colin Brown from All Nu Landscapes added: "We're local to the area, and for us it's about giving back.
"People here are really looking forward to it, there's a lot of footfall here and people passing tell us they're excited to have it open.
"I think a lot of people are just hoping that it stays what we're making it into, and doesn't return back to the state that it was in previously, whether that be unkept or the antisocial behaviour - we're hoping that stops."
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