Landscaping works at Civic Street

The investment in landscaping to enhance the open space on Civic Street is welcomed. This has transformed a neglected area in to a outdoor meeting place for residents and visitors.

View of improved outdoor space with seating on Civic Street

There is a need for ongoing support for enhancement of this area next to the M8 Woodside Viaduct. It is key part of a Canal Quarter providing a base for a range of creative people and cultural organisations.

Cycle lane on Hopehill Road

This month, the cycle lane has been reinstated with the boulder put back in place to stop cars cutting through Hopehill Road.

View of Cycle Lane

This cycle lane is established in Hopehill Road as part of the Connecting Woodside Project. It encourages people to cycle due to the availability of a segregated cycle lane.

Nelson Mandela statue unveiled

On 9th October 2026, I was glad to find the Nelson Mandela statue was light up. It was unveiled within Nelson Mandela Square and commemorates the South African Anti-apartheid Leader.

                                   View of Nelson Mandela Statue

                             

Thanks to the Scottish sculptor, Alan B Herriot who was selected to create the statue. The project was overseen by the Nelson Mandela Scottish Memorial Foundation.

Viewpoint at Speirs Wharf

I enjoy a visit to the canal towpath at Speirs Wharf. This location has a cultural mix with lots of heritage buildings, several cafes, and arts activities near the Forth and Clyde Canal

Views of the canal towpath at Speirs Wharf

This is a busy route which is ideal for cycling, walking and jogging. There are also lots of canal boats to admire along this section of the canal towpath. Thanks to Scottish Canals for their ongoing repairs and maintenance work.

Empty Building in Park Terrace Lane

This month, there have been further reports about empty buildings impacting on residents. There is an ongoing concern about a vacant unit on Park Terrace Lane.

This unit has been causing maintenance issues for people living in Park Terrace Lane for many years. It is hoped that the owner is willing to refurbish this building or put it up for sale, soon. 

Building work progresses at Grant Street

During my regular walks along St. Georges Road, I have noticed the ongoing work to construction a 6-storey building to accommodate new student flats. This scale of flatted development is expected to provide housing for 262 students.

View of the 6 storey building under construction

The new build is a significant change to the outlook of existing properties on Grant Street. There is a need to support existing residents who are neighbouring this development whilst the construction is progressing. 

Calls for better parental leave

This month, I provided support for the calls to establish a better parental leave system for parents by the UK Government. There is a petition gathering supporters of 6 weeks paternity leave paid at 90% of salary for all and more flexible working as default.

View of banners at the demonstration held by parents on 27th August.

More information is available from campaigners involved in the current movement known as the Parent Strike including @mother_pukka, @dadshiftuk and @pregnant_then_screwed.