Twenty years ago two primary schools were demolished in Ruchazie (Glasgow) leaving a large swathe of land vacant and derelict at the heart of the community. In the intervening period nature has reclaimed the land and there is now a wealth of biodiversity on the site.

Working alongside local development trust Growing21 – and in partnership with Ruchazie Pantry, Seven Lochs Wetland Park, TCV Scotland and Glasgow City Council – we have developed the space to become a connective tissue between the two different parts of Ruchazie – linking the community back together – whilst maintaining the vast array of nature, wildlife, flora and fauna. 

The Link connects people to the land around them by inviting them to grow, learn and play in this new greenspace.

Through understanding the history – and future ambitions – of the site, extensive engagement with the community and co-creation with local people of designs across the site, The Link has become a key part of the community as it has developed (and will continue to evolve in the future).

Key routes were created throughout the site, while others were enhanced to allow more access for local people to walk, pedal and push; the entrances have been enhanced to carry the message of what you can do at The Link, and; key structures, community gathering spaces and places to grow, learn and play have been developed, designed and installed across the site.