Hamiltonhill Green Infrastructure

Hamiltonhill Green Infrastructure
Hamiltonhill Green Infrastructure is an advanced phase of work associated with a large 700unit residential masterplan in North Glasgow. The project is being delivered on behalf of Queens Cross Housing Association / Urban Union and the green infrastructure aspect of the project is largely funded by NatureScot Green Infrastructure Fund (c. £5million).
Historically, the site was located within a thriving industrial area which featured an engine works, brick works and timber processing. By the mid-20th century the site had transitioned to an extensive post-war residential development and associated schools. In recent years the housing has largely been demolished due to the low quality of the building stock and challenging socio-economic conditions. This has left large areas of Vacant and Derelict Land, expanses of low quality amenity grass and overgrown, self-seeded, scrub vegetation. The area was subject to a collaborative Charrette in 2016 which resulted in a development framework, setting out a vison for a new residential community with integrated green infrastructure. The area is now subject to a transformational residential masterplan led by Collective Architecture.
At the heart of the masterplan is the creation of 5 new community greenspaces of varying scales and functions;
• a large new Community Park,
• a new Play Park with natural play and accessible play components;
• 2no new parklets that incorporate significant SUDS attenuation basins; and
• A new community garden
‘Building with Nature’ principles have been applied to the design of each greenspace which sought to maximise opportunities for biodiversity enhancement, the incorporation of active travel, SUDS integration, community gatherings, and encouraging activity through play, sports and passive recreation.
The designs have aimed to create a distinctive character by responding positively to the strong topography and elevated location of the site. SUDS and natural play features have also responded to the topography of the site. Extensive habitats have been created throughout via tree planting and wildflower meadow creation.
The project has undergone significant community and stakeholder engagement including several workshops, public displays, presentations at local venues, online engagement and social media promotions, subsequently shaping the design to ensure community aspirations are realised.
The new community greenspaces have transformed previously underutilised or inaccessible areas into fully accessible and engaging community spaces. The new green infrastructure at Hamiltonhill has not only improved the visual amenity of the local area in Possilpark, but has also created safer, more accessible and more useable community spaces.