South Lanarkshire Council has applied to the Scottish Government’s Vacant and Derelict Land Fund for nearly £750,000 to allow the implementation of the two projects that will complete the transformation of Cuningar Loop: the remediation of a woodland park and the creation of allotments.

South Lanarkshire is one of only five councils in Scotland to meet the strict eligibility rules for the Vacant and Derelict Land Fund, primarily due to the large and complex sites within the South Lanarkshire parts of the Clyde Gateway area.

The ‘Greening’ part of the funding proposal would provide access to 27 hectares of riverside woods and parkland by creating, on a four-hectare site, the final series of Cuningar Loop’s woodland paths, biodiverse habitats, remediated landscapes and healthy outdoor activity and learning hubs, all within accessible walking and cycling distance for communities in Rutherglen and the East end of Glasgow.

The project would also look at opportunities to benefit from the British Geological Society’s £9m geothermal research station located on the Loop.

The second part of the proposal would cover the increased cost for the completion of at least 50 allotments, raised beds and associated facilities after COVID-19. Costs across the construction industry have risen significantly because of supply chain issues arising from Brexit and the Russia/Ukraine conflict

Councillor Robert Brown, Chair of the Community and Enterprise Resources at South Lanarkshire Council, said: “Cuningar Loop has been a tremendous success and I hope many more local people will take the chance to visit and explore it. Both of these projects will bring considerable benefits and a much-needed boost to the people of the Rutherglen area.

“Food growing spaces will help to improve the quality of life and wellbeing of those in disadvantaged communities and, along with these allotments and raised beds, there will be a car park for allotment users, storage provision, associated paths and shelters for users to utilise during bad weather.

“Completing the Woodland Park will also provide an amazing facility for local people, with lots of opportunities to enjoy fresh air, exercise and nature in beautiful surroundings.”