The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) has commended Glasgow City Council for its work to regenerate the Calton Barras district after singling out the east end regeneration project for praise in its planning for a successful economy category.

 

During a virtual ceremony hosted on YouTube, the historic market earned a commendation after going head-to-head with other projects drawn from around the country, drawing particular praise for its community engagement and embrace of local businesses.

 

Recent and ongoing works centre on a series of public realm improvements including an upgrade of paving throughout the area, new shopfronts and improved links to the city centre; building on established attractions such as Barras Art and Design and the St Luke's venue.

 

Commenting on the nomination the judges said: "This project had a creative outlook and has been developed with the community at the forefront. It has an ongoing strategy for not only planning but also design to make the area inviting to not only the locals but businesses too. The judges were particularly impressed by the layering through the planning process and implementation, a very bottom-up approach to encompass all. The area was on the decline and needed the stimulus and new identity from Glasgow City Council, to great success. The judges found this refreshing to see.”

 

The regeneration of Westmuir Street School, Robroyston Station and Scotland's first council-enabled urban self-build scheme at Bantaskin Street were also named as finalists in this years programme.