Govan Housing Association

We have been fortunate to collaborate with Govan Housing Association (GHA) on the development of Water Row, following our success in their invited competition in 2017 to create the strategic masterplan. From the outset, the client team set an ambitious brief for the project: to deliver 100-150 new, energy-efficient affordable homes, community-controlled commercial space, and high-quality public realm in and around Water Row.

Located on the vacant and derelict land register, Water Row was identified as a key development site in Glasgow’s City Plan and plays a pivotal role in transforming the city's waterfront. The project offered the opportunity to connect Glasgow's West End with the South, highlighted by the construction of a new pedestrian bridge. Together with the new housing, this bridge has helped revitalise the area. The completed development marks Phase 1 of a broader strategic vision, developed by Collective Architecture alongside GHA.

In 2017-2018, GHA partnered with Glasgow City Council to launch an intensive year-long co-design and engagement process involving residents, local organisations, and stakeholders. Their involvement was crucial in placing co-creation at the heart of the project, ensuring it was a truly collaborative effort that would benefit both Govan and the wider city. This project presented GHA with a unique challenge, requiring commitment, patience, and vision. They embraced these challenges and navigated numerous complexities, including extensive consultation periods and rising material costs exacerbated by the pandemic.

Despite these challenges, including a significant value-engineering exercise, GHA remained committed to maintaining the quality of the project and its people-centred focus on well-being. They were determined to retain key features, such as private balconies for each home, ensuring outdoor space for all tenants.

Additionally, the inclusion of Mid-Market Rent properties guarantees that a wide range of residents can live and work locally, fostering a balanced and inclusive community.

GHA also worked tirelessly to ensure that the new ground-floor commercial units are occupied by local businesses and agencies. These units are fully rented out to small independent enterprises, complementing the existing businesses in Govan and enhancing the appeal of Govan Cross. This supports the wider regeneration efforts and sets a strong foundation for future phases.

GHA openly share how incredibly proud of the Water Row development, emphasising that it represents more than just housing—it’s about regenerating Govan for the local community.

The vision, passion and commitment shown by our client has been fundamental to Water Row’s success.