From Grey to Green: An Ecological Equation

GREY to GREEN

AN ECOLOGICAL EQUATION Rachael C Smith

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University of Strathclyde Department of Architecture BSc Honours Architectural Studies Dissertation From Grey to Green: An Ecological Equation Rachael C. Smith rachael.c.smith@strath.ac.uk Registration Number : 201040484 Dissertation supervisor : Cristian Suau March 2015 2

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I would like to thank my tutor, Dr Cristian Suau, for all his knowledge, support and passion which helped drive my research.

I am really grateful for the encouragement from my family and peers, in particular my parents, who have supported and helped me throughout all my studies.

DECLARATION “I hereby declare that this dissertation submission is my own work and has been composed by myself. It contains no unacknowledged text and has not been submitted in any previous context. All quotations have been distinguished by quotation marks and all sources of information, text, illustration, tables, images etc. have been specifically acknowledged. I accept that if having signed this Declaration my work should be found at Examination to show evidence of academic dishonesty the work will fail and I will be liable to face the University Senate Discipline Committee.�

NAME: ______________________________________________ SIGNED: ______________________________________________ DATE: ______________________________________________

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Key Words and Abstract List of Figures

01 02

CONTENTS

7 9

Introduction

15

Historical Evidence

18

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Recovery Strategy 3.1 Reconnecting city segments 3.2 Linear parks 3.3 Pocket parks

25 26 27 28

04 05

Biological Corridor

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Case Studies 5.1 Singelpark, Leiden 5.2 New York City High Line 5.3 Manzanares River, Madrid 5.4 Fresh Kills Park, New York City

54 55 59 64 68

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Glasgow Goals 6.1 Stalled Spaces 6.2 Open Space

73 74 78

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Conclusions, Evaluation and Recommendation

83

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Bibliography

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GLOSSARY OF KEY WORDS GREY TO GREEN

THE VISION OF TRANSFORMING THE CITY FROM A CONCRETE JUNGLE TO A VIBRANT JUNGLE.

RIVER CLYDE

THE MAIN RIVER THAT RUNS THROUGH GLASGOW.

LINEAR GREEN CORRIDOR

A BIOLOGICAL CORRIDOR (FLORA AND FAUNA) THAT RUNS FROM ONE POINT (A) TO ANOTHER POINT (B). ESSENTIALLY A LINEAR FOREST THAT ENHANCES TRANSPORTATION OF WILDLIFE AND PEOPLE.

INFRASTRUCTURAL POCKET PARKS

THE CREATION OF SMALL GREEN AREAS/PARK SPACE USING VACANT SPACE LEFT BY OBSELETE RAILWAY LINES, TUNNELS AND PLATFORMS.

GREEN ARTERIES

AN AREA OF GREEN WITHIN A COMMUNITY OR SEGMENT - A CENTRAL GREEN CULTURAL, SOCIAL, EDUCATION, HEALTHY HUB OF ACTIVITY.

RECONNECT

LINK NORTH, SOUTH, EAST AND WEST BY A GREEN CORRIDOR AND POCKET PARKS REUNITING THE SPRAWLED SEGMENTS.

(1)Linking West to East and Segment to Segment. Author’s diagram.

ABSTRACT Glasgow has an abundance of green space. However the city has become a fragmented series of pieces of urban context and urban landscape.

GREY TO GREEN will explore possible strategies the city could employ to integrate Glasgow’s urban context with biological corridor and pocket parks, reconnecting North, South, East and West.

Reactivating biological corridors in the city of Glasgow by using the RIVER CLYDE as a LINEAR GREEN CORRIDOR and the obsolete railway lines as INFRASTRUCTURAL POCKET PARKS, offers the potential to provide opportunities to enhance the city – reconnecting its areas and communities.

These GREEN ARTERIES will connect north to south parts of our city, and the east to west axis will form a cruciform equation creating a matrix of biological opportunities in the urban scene.

Regional and international case studies will be examined, analysing the feasibility of a biological approach as a recovery strategy to RECONNECT THE FRAGMENTED GLASGOW. Conclusions and suggestions can be drawn as to how plausible this integration could be.

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LIST OF FIGURES (1) Linking West to East and Segment to Segment, 2014, Author’s diagram 7 (2) Glasgow Expanding Outwards Into Segments, 2014, Author’s diagram15 (3) John McArthur’s Plan of the City of Glasgow, 1778, Edited

by Author, 2015. www.gla.ac.uk/media/media_107125_en.jpg.

[2/3/15] 21 (4) David Smith’s Plan Of The City Of Glasgow, 1828 Edited by Author, 2015. www.gla.ac.uk/media/media_107241_ en.jpg [2/3/15] 22 (5) John Bartholomew’s New Plan Of Glasgow With Suburbs: Post Office Directory, 1901-02. Edited by Author, 2015. www. gla.ac.uk/media/media_107223_en.jpg [2/3/15] 23 (6A) Recovery Strategy, 2014. Author’s diagra 26 (6B) Ecological Equation: Linear Corridor + Pocket Parks, 2014, Author’s diagram 26 (7) Clyde Panorama, The iconic structures on the north bank of the River Clyde could be united by a green corridor Photo: RSC-Scotland. 2014. Photo: RSC-Scotland. http://www.rscscotland.org/inclusion/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/glasgow. jpg [6/3/15] 28 (8) Maryhill Station, 2009. Photo: Ben Cooper http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/glasgow-trainstations__o_t__t_1025.html [4/3/15] 29

(9A) Botanic Gardens, 2009. Photo: Ben Cooper http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/glasgow-trainstations__o_t__t_1025.html [4/3/15] 30 (9B) Botanic Gardens, 2009. Photo: Ben Cooper http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/glasgow-trainstations__o_t__t_1025.html [4/3/15] 31 (10A) Possilpark, 2011. http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/ glasgow-train-stations__o_t__t_1025.html [1/3/15] 32 (10A) Possilpark, 2011. http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/ glasgow-train-stations__o_t__t_1025.html [4/3/15] 33 (11A) Crookston, 2009. http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/ glasgow-train-stations__o_t__t_1025.html [4/3/15] 34 (11B) Crookston Signal Box 1986. http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/ archive/glasgow-train-stations__o_t__t_1025.html [4/3/15] 35 (12) Nitshill 2009. Photo: Alex Glass. http://urbanglasgow. co.uk/archive/glasgow-train-stations__o_t__t_1025. html[28/2/15] 36 (13A) Gorbals, 2009. http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/ glasgow-train-stations__o_t__t_1025.html [4/3/15] 37 (13B) Gorbals Highline, 2014. @GlasgowHighline. twitter.Com/ Glasgowhighline [4/3/15] 38 (14) Bridgeton Cross, 2009.http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/ glasgow-train-stations__o_t__t_1025.html 9

(15A) Entrance to Glasgow Green Station prior to demolition, with Templeton Carpet Factory in the Background.

2012, http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/glasgow-trainstations__o_t__t_1025.html [27/2/15] 40 (15B) Glasgow Green, 2012. http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/glasgow-train-stations__o_t__t_1025.html [27/2/15] 41

(22) A Place For The People. Photo: Lola Landscape Architects. http://Www.Archdaily.Com/254703/Singel-Park-Winning-Proposal-Lola-Studio-Karst/ [28/2/15] 55

(16) Dalmarnock Retrieved 1969. http://Urbanglasgow.Co.Uk/Archive/Abandoned-Central-Low-Level-In1967__O_T__T_3419.Html [1/3/15] 42

(23) Singelpark logo incorporating iconic buildings along the canal. Image from same-d 2-3-design. http://www.same-d.nl/ En/Identity-Singelpark-Leiden/ [28/2/15] 56

(17) Clydebank Riverside, 2015. www.Daves-Trains.Co.Uk, 2015. [10/3/15] 43

(24) The evocative tulip symbol in the same style as the Singelpark logo design has been adopted by the Friends of Singelpark. Image: same-d 2-3-design. http://ww.Same-D.Nl/Public/ Files/Sitewide/2919 [28/02/15] 56

(18A) Whiteinch, 2012. http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/glasgow-train-stations__o_t__t_1025.html [1/3/15] 44 (18B) Whiteinch Scotstoun West. www.daves-trains.co.uk, 2015 [3/3/15] 45 (19A) Partick Central, 2009. http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/ glasgow-train-stations__o_t__t_1025.html [1/3/15] 46 (19B) Partick, 2009. http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/glasgow-train-stations__o_t__t_1025.html [1/3/15] 47 (20A) Kelvinbridge to Stobcross, 2009. Photo: Ben Cooper. http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/glasgow-train-stations__o_t__t_1025.html [4/3/15] 48 (20B) Kelvinbridge Tunnel, 2009. Photo: Ben Cooper. http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/glasgow-train-stations__o_t__t_1025.html [4/3/15] 49 10

(21) Winning Design for Singelpark, Leiden. Photo: Lola Landscape Architects. http://Www.Archdaily.Com/254703/Singel-Park-Winning-Proposal-Lola-Studio-Karst/ [28/02/15] 55

(25) Riverview of Singelpark. Photo: Lola Landscape Architects. http://Www.Archdaily.Com/254703/Singel-Park-Winning-Proposal-Lola-Studio-Karst/ [28/2/15] 57 (26) Energy Efficiency. Photo: Lola Landscape Architects. http://Www.Archdaily.Com/254703/Sin gel-Park-Winning-Proposal-Lola-Studio-Karst/ [28/2/15] 57 (27) Bridges of Leiden. Photo: Lola Landscape Architects. http://Www.Archdaily.Com/254703/Singel-Park-Winning-Proposal-Lola-Studio-Karst/ [28/2/15] 58 (28) Aerial View of New York City High Line, 2011. Photo: Passport to Design. http://passport2design.com/nycs-park-in-thesky/ [28/2/15] 59 (29) High Line Before Development. Photo: Malcolm Pinckney, 2006. www.Nycgovparks.Org - High Line. [28/2/15] 60

(30) Narrow waterways are planned alongside paths. Image: New York City Department of Parks & Recreation. http://www. nycgovparks.org/parks/the-high-line/photos [28/02/15]. 60 (31) The Park in the Sky, 2013. http://sustentator.Com/Blog-Es/ Blog/2013/09/16/Verde-Que-Te-Quiero-Verde-4/ [7/2/15] 61 (32) Views of Manhattan impossible from the ground. www.

Fastcodesign.Com/1664032/The-Second-Phase-Of-NycsHigh-Line-Is-Even-Better-Than-The-First-Slideshow June 2011 [7/2/15] 62 (33) The Manzanares River landscape, 2011. Photo: West 8 Landscape Architects. http://e-architect.co.uk/madrid/madrid-rio-landscape [28/02/15] 64 (34) Aerial view of the Manzanrez, 2011. Photo: West 8 Landscape Architects. http://e-architect.co.uk/madrid/madrid-rio-landscape [28/02/15] 65 (35) Vision for the Salon de Pinos, 2011. Photo: West 8 Landscape Architects. http://www.e-architect.co.uk/madrid/madrid-rio-landscape [28/02/15] 66 (36) Vision becomes reality, 2011. Image: Jeroen Musch. http://www.e-architect.co.uk/madrid/madrid-rio-landscape [28/02/15] 66 (37) Freshkills - Five Parks in One. Image: The Freshkills Park Alliance. http://Freshkillspark.Org/Wp-Content/Uploads/2013/0 7/5-Parks-E1394725019550 [28/2/15] 68 (38) Aeriel View of Fresh Kills Park. Photo: Field Operations. http://Fieldoperations.Net/Project-Details/Project/Freshkills-Park [28/2/15] 69

(39) Green Against Grey. Photo: Field Operations. View across to New York City from Fresh Kills Park. http://Fieldoperations.

Net/Project-Details/Project/Freshkills-Park [28/2/15] 69 (40) Visions for Fresh Kills Park - Sport. Image: Field Operations http://Fieldoperations.Net/Project-Details/Project/Freshkills-Park [28/2/15] 70 (41) Visions for Fresh Kills Park - Safe Place. Image: Field Operations. http://Fieldoperations.Net/Project-Details/Project/ Freshkills-Park [28/2/15] 71 (42) Visions for Fresh Kills Park - Nature. Image: Field Operations. http://Fieldoperations.Net/Project-Details/Project/Freshkills-Park [28/2/15] 71 (43) Vacant Spaces – Pecha Kusha 21: Pretty Vacant. Suau et al, 2014. https://vimeo.com/107172298 [2/12/14] 74 (44A) Parkhead Education. Photo: Glasgow City Council. http://Glasgow.Gov.Uk/Index.Aspx?Articleid=10695 [28/2/15] 75 (44B) Parkhead Community. Photo: Glasgow City Council. http://Glasgow.Gov.Uk/Index.Aspx?Articleid=10695 [28/2/15] 75 (45A) Shettleston Community Growing Project. Photo: Glasgow City Council. http://Glasgow.Gov.Uk/Index.Aspx?Articleid=10695 [28/2/15] 75 (45B) Shettleston Community Growing Project. Photo: Glasgow City Council. http://Glasgow.Gov.Uk/Index.Aspx?Articleid=10695 [28/2/15] 75

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(46A) Maryhill Integration Network - Avenuepark Street. Photo: Glasgow City Council. http://Glasgow.Gov.Uk/Index.Aspx?Articleid=10695 [28/2/15] 76

Open Space Benefits: Glasgow Open Space Strategy: Consultation Draft (2011), PP14-15. Glasgow City Council. http://glasgow.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=9478&p=0 [7/3/15] 81

(46B) Maryhill Integration Network - Avenuepark Street. Photo: Glasgow City Council. http://Glasgow.Gov.Uk/Index.Aspx?Articleid=10695 [28/2/15] 76

(53A) Use Of Space. Public Space – On Ground, Overground, Underground, 2015. Author’s sketch. 84

(47A) Elderpark Before. Glasgow City Council http://.Glasgow.

Gov.Uk/Index.Aspx?Articleid=10695 [28/2/15] 76 (47B) Elderpark After. Glasgow City Council http://Glasgow.

Gov.Uk/Index.Aspx?Articleid=10695 [28/2/15] 76 (48A) Castlemilk Youth Complex Cycle Cinema. Glasgow City Council http://Glasgow.Gov.Uk/Index.Aspx?Articleid=10695 77 (48B) Castlemilk Youth Complex Cycle Cinema. Glasgow City Council http://Glasgow.Gov.Uk/Index.Aspx?Articleid=10695 77 (49) Openspace Ecological Connections Part 3 - Glasgow Open Space Strategy: Consultation Draft (2011), P89. Glasgow City Council. http://glasgow.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=9478&p=0 [7/3/15] 79 (50) Openspace Part 4 Local Flora and Fauna. Glasgow Open Space Strategy: Consultation Draft (2011), P91. Glasgow City Council. http://glasgow.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=9478&p=0 [7/3/15] 79 (51) Open Space Part 5 Water Filtration Diagram. Glasgow Open Space Strategy: Consultation Draft (2011), P110. Glasgow City Council. http://glasgow.gov.uk/CHttpHandler.ashx?id=9478&p=0 [7/3/15] 80 (52) Openspace Table 3.1 Outcomes. Summary Of Potential 12

(53B) Use Of Space - Enhanced Commuting Options, 2015.

Author’s sketch. 84 (53C) Use Of Space - Enhanced Health and Activity Levels of Users, 2015. Author’s sketch. 84 (54A) Identity (Sense of Space and Place). Greater Sense of Community: Community Spirit = City Spirit = Empowerment + Ownership, 2015. Author’s sketch. 85 (54B) Identity (Sense of Space and Place). Unique Neighbourhoods: All Benefit + All Enhanced = Neighbourhood Spirit = City Spirit, 2015. Author’s sketch. 85 (54C) Identity (Sense of Space and Place). Maintenance of and Respect for Historic/Iconic Elements of Glasgow, 2015. Author’s sketch. 85 (55A) Re-Connectivity: Linking City Segments (NSEW) with Green Linear Clyde Corridor, 2015. Author’s sketch. 86 (55B) Re-Connectivity. Nodes Identified for Pocket Parks In NSEW – Reuse of Derelict Raillines as Green Pockets of Public Space, 2015. Author’s sketch. 86 (55C) Places of interest near transit routes. http:/www.scotiana. com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Glasgow-subway-places-ofinterest-St-Enoch-Buchanan-Street-map.jpg [11315] 86

(56A) Quality Of Space. Maximisation ff Green Life, 2015. Author’s sketch. 87 (56B) Quality Of Space. Aiming to Minimise Pollution and Noise Levels, 2015. Author’s sketch. 87 (56C) Quality Of Space. Safe Environments Provided to Work/ Play/Learn, 2015. Author’s sketch. 87 (56D) Quality Of Space. Public Space Is Valued, 2015. Author’s sketch. 87 (57A) Plots and Vegetable Gardens, 2015. Author’s sketch. 88 (57B) Markets And Fairs, 2015. Author’s sketch. 88 (57C) Relaxing and Socialising, 2015. Author’s sketch. 88

(58F) Outdoor Cinema, 2015. Author’s sketch. 90 (58G) Performance Space, 2015. Author’s sketch. 90 (58H) Lighting, 2015. Author’s sketch. 90 (59) Methods of Phyto Treatment. Reproduced from Kuhl, K. (2010) The Field Guide to Phytoremediation. http://urbanomnibus.net/2010/11/from-brownfields-to-greenfields-a-field-guideto-phytoremediation/ [100315] 91 (60) Levels of Acceptable Soil Contamination Phytoremediation Guide. Reproduced from Kuhl, K. (2010) The Field Guide to Phytoremediation. http://urbanomnibus.net/2010/11/frombrownfields-to-greenfields-a-field-guide-to-phytoremediation/ [11315] 91

(57D) Exercise and Activity Opportunities Enhanced (A Place to Play), 2015. Author’s sketch. 88 (57E) A Safe Place for all Ages and Activities, 2015. Author’s sketch. 89 (57F) Through Routes to Enhance Journeys, 2015. Author’s sketch. 89 (58A) Curtain Wall, 2015. Author’s sketch. 89 (58B) Bike Stands, 2015. Author’s sketch. 89 (58C) Art Installations, 2015. Author’s sketch. 90 (58D) Water Features, 2015. Author’s sketch. 90 (58E) Vertical Greening, 2015. Author’s sketch. 90 13

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01

INTRODUCTION

(2) Glasgow Expanding Outwards into Segments. Author’s diagram.

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Finnish architect Alvar Aalto is cited as declaring: ”A person should be able to walk through a forest on their way home from work” (Aitoa Arkkitechtuuria; 2008).

This statement resonates in the context of life in Glasgow: many well established, iconic green areas, such as Kelvingrove Park, Glasgow Green, Pollock Park and Bellahouston Park are significant spaces, very beautiful in their own right.

However reconnecting the city’s segments could potentially increase the sense of space and place within the wider context of Glasgow significantly. This will be explored by suggesting an incorporation of green biological corridors throughout the urban fabric to beautifully transform the city.

Through thorough investigation of ‘green’ international case studies and understanding regional city initiatives, incentives, and small projects, the anticipated outcome of this study will be to demonstrate that the factors associated with biological strategies could successfully reconnect Glasgow’s sprawled segments, as well as having the potential to enhance public use, quality of space and sense of place.

The study aims to demonstrate that the following elements could be enhanced:

- Interconnectivity - the city’s connection from area to

area

- Citizen’s health, sense of space and place;

- Suggestive reductions of pollution levels; and

- Social and economic factors.

The initial sprawl of the city, construction of paved roads, railways, natural and human development, misused space, vacant and empty space have all led to the fragmentation of the city. Historical maps in the following chapter evidence this.

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Glasgow has gradually defragmented as it has expanded outwards, with each sector – north, south, east, west – developing its own identity, from suburbia to college campus, pockets of deprivation to affluent areas. One of the inevitable results of this disconnection is an increased use of car travel.

Car, bus, train and subway are all used to get as quickly as possible from A to B. Yet as Speck (2013, p5) points out, there are other options through the application of “simple design fixes ... giving pedestrians a fighting chance, while also embracing bikes, enhancing transit, and making downtown living attractive.” Although individuals cannot be prevented from using public and private transport as an obvious and quick means of getting from one side of the city to the other, that journey could be enhanced through the creation of through-routes to reconnect the fragmented parts: west to east via the River Clyde; and in each segment by redevelopment of derelict rail lines, structures and platforms. Speck calls for a “collective movement to do what cities do best, which is to bring people together - on foot.” (2013, p5).

Through analysis of both regional and international projects using the same set of key factors – use of space, quality of space, identity (sense of space and place) and reconnectivity - the following conclusion will be suggested: that green corridors and pocket parks could not only enhance the city and connectivity between communities; but also provide opportunities to increase public realm, public place, space, well-being and education. Other factors will also be documented as being necessary to consider when suggesting a biological integration into Glasgow’s city fabric.

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HISTORICAL EVIDENCE GLASGOW’S GROWTH

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The three maps on pages 21 to 23 clearly evidence the growth and city sprawl of Glasgow’s boundary (McArthur, 1778; Smith, 1828; Bartholomew, 1901-02).

By simply highlighting where the River Clyde runs through each map dating from 1778 up to 1901 the continuing growth of the city either side of the Clyde is evident. One can see the city develop not only due to industry, but also as each side grows and sprawls outwards to provide new houses - and with these new houses, new communities, retail areas, schools, parks and all the infrastructure required to support them.

There is no evidence to suggest that this sprawling will come to a halt - as people live longer, birth rates rising, and an increase of single person households, the sight of new housing developments is a constant all over the city.

Originally described as a burgh itself, Glasgow was not a very well established city until the 17th century. Few buildings, landmarks, homes and factories existed – those able to be identified are few and far between, such as the Cathedral, the old bridge over the Clyde, and Tron kirk; while the alleyways of 17th Century Glasgow are today’s wide thoroughfares, such as Buchanan, Argyle and Sauchiehall Streets.

Surveyor John McArthur’s late-18th century city plan (McArthur, 1778) depicts the boundary of the city, and shows the location of significant buildings and up-and-coming industries – college land and local landowner development, as well as planned development in the east of city. What is significantly informative about this map is the small scale of Glasgow.

Two-hundred-and-thirty years ago the most westerly point of the city’s boundary extended only as far as Buchanan Street to the north of Argyle Street, the streets between Saltmarket and High Street - a maze of closes and wynds.

In the following 30 years the city growth accelerates, with various industries developing in and around Glasgow, especially evidenced in the cotton works, mills and industrial builds along the south of the River Clyde. With the Gorbals slowly expanding and alleys becoming wider, the city spreads west.

With extensive changes to street layouts, Blythswood, Garnethill and Bridgeton are established, along with a growth in the number of important and significant streets; factories and industries becomes more and more apparent; and the city boundary slightly expands northerly now.

Coupled with a growth in transport, road developments and transport links slowly increase to allow a more efficient way of getting around.

Between 1858 and 1865 Glasgow was described as the ‘Second City of the Empire’, with the city building up into a network of transit and housing developments and the introduction of various rail stations around the city. However at this stage there was no real growth along the riverside.

Partick at this point is considered a completely separate village, indicating that the city has not yet expanded as far west as it has in other directions. The Royal Botanic Gardens act at this point as the boundary of Glasgow.

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The population in 1865 was 491,715 with an enormous boom by 1871 bringing it to 566,150. However the most fascinating figure is the growth between 1871 and 1901, with the population of Glasgow and its neighbouring burghs (Partick and Govan) almost doubling to an impressive 900,000-plus.

The most significant developments during this period were those of Kelvingrove Park and many suburban developments, along with industry, train lines, parks and water works.

More than 100 years later the riverside area of the city is unrecognisable, traditional industry having been replaced with “lifestyle” industries such as leisure and tourism. The regenerated Glasgow Harbour area, with the Scottish Exhibition and Conference Centre, Hydro, Clyde Auditorium, Riverside Museum, Science Centre and modern riverside apartments, presents a 21st century foreground set against the backdrop of Glasgow’s iconic bridges.

Today the city has continued to spread outwards, slowly dissecting into segments, with north, south, east and west all known as areas in their own right. The premise of this dissertation is the need to refocus the city, concentrating on bringing these segments together by creating a reconnected, safe, greener Glasgow using abandoned or underused spaces and industrial relics. The number of houses will continue to rise due to changes in social demographics - single parents, longer life span, more births – but although city sprawl cannot be prevented, there is an opportunity to improve the connections between individuals, their local communities and the wider community of Glasgow.

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Montgomery (2013, p78) sums up the challenge concisely as the need to “redesign both landscapes and the fabric that connects them in ways that ansswer the needs that led us to retreat in the first place.”

The following maps are edited - pin pointing the same location as a reference point in black, then mapping outwards in green bubbles to emphasise the expansion of centain areas that led to the sprawl outwards from the city centre.

Mapping the growth makes the sheer expanse of the city obvious - the first city map (3) John McArthur’s Plan of the City of Glasgow, 1778, shows the smaller boundary and a close, condensed city, in comparison to the third map (5) John Bartholomew’s New Plan of Glasgow with Suburbs, 1901-02 which is almost all highlighted in green, evidently displaying the sprawl from the centre.

(3) John McArthur’s Plan of the City of Glasgow, 1778. Edited by Author

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(4) David Smith’s Plan of the City of Glasgow, 1828. Edited by Author

(5) John Bartholomew’s New Plan of Glasgow with Suburbs: Post Office Directory, 1901-02. Edited by Author

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RECOVERY STRATEGY 3.1 HOW COULD WE RECONNECT CITY SEGMENTS? 3.2 LINEAR PARKS: RECOVERY OF THE CLYDE LINKING WEST TO EAST 3.3 POCKET PARKS: RECOVERY OF OBSOLETE RAILWAYS

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3.1 HOW COULD WE RECONNECT CITY SEGMENTS? A realistic recovery strategy that could possibly reconnect the city’s north, south, east and west segments, is shown on the right (6A) outlining a simplified strategy for reconnecting the segments.

Biological corridors are suggested in two parts. the ecological equation is explained in the image below (6B): 1.Linear biological corridor – this will provide a green link from east to west running parallel to the River Clyde.

2. Pocket Parks – these will provide a green infrastructural link from north to south by utilising the obsolete elevated rail lines.

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(6B) Ecological Equation: Linear Corridor + Pocket Parks. Author’s Diagram

(6A) Recovery Strategy. Author’s diagram

This is a vision of Glasgow as a reconnected, greener city, green corridors as well as grey roads linking the city’s segments. By close analysis of successful precedents, ranging from large to small scale urban and park developments, this study will conclude with detailing possible strategies which could realistically be integrated into Glasgow’s urban fabric.

3.2 LINEAR PARK: RECOVERY OF THE CLYDE LINKING WEST TO EAST Originally the Clyde was a well established trading and shipbuilding hub. However, with importing, exporting, trading and shipbuilding industries no longer forming the area’s primary raison d’être, as industry declined derelict, unused vacant space was created within the urban fabric. The Glasgow Garden Festival of 1988 identifies a turning point for the former Docklands area, as it marked the start of a fresh flourish of enthusiasm for the area. Situated mainly on the south bank of the Clyde, the Garden Festival essentially ‘planted the seed’ which grew into ambitious plans for the regeneration of both banks of the Clyde.

This area had declined so far that it repelled rather than attracted. But building on the catalyst provided by the Garden Festival, by creating visual points of reference the Clyde began to attract life again. Finally the disused area is successfully under redevelopment, offering significant opportunities and sustainably regenerating the Clyde and Glasgow as a whole.

Regeneration of the waterfront on both the north and south banks is well and truly underway, with both commercial and residential developments. Iconic landmarks play a significant part in this revival, acting as a catalyst for further regeneration.

The rebirth which started with the Garden Festival reached maturity with the XX Commonwealth Games in 2014, which were prefaced by a flurry of building and revival. The banks of the Clyde are now home to structures which have become iconic features of the Glasgow skyline: the £125-million SSE Hydro’s silver dome reflects the Finnieston crane, symbolic of the area’s industrial past and its rebirth as a leisure hub. The site of the former flour mill is now the location of sought-after riverside apartments, while along the riverbank the Riverside Museum captures the spirit of regeneration.

However enhancement of the areas between these iconic landmarks could lead to a much more connected approach to regeneration, addressing the sensation that the riverside is still fragmented.

Therefore the simple suggestion of integrating a linear biological corridor along the River Clyde could help unite all the elements of the regeneration projects, creating a journey linking the river’s iconic sites, connected by a walk through a green corridor. This would have the effect of attracting even more life, laughter, flora and fauna, thus enhancing the impact of current regeneration.

This added element to the Clyde’s regeneration could have the potential to create a more successful, welcoming and safe place, attracting the public to not only visit these buildings, but to socialise, to play, to learn, to walk, to cycle and to commute along the water’s edge. Speck (2013), p17)

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3.3 POCKET PARKS: RECOVERY OF OBSOLETE RAILWAYS Analysing Glasgow’s derelict railways through study of maps, online urban forums and visits and personal discoveries and observation, it is possible to explore the feasibility of using obsolete railway structures, sections and platforms to create pocket park spaces in each segment of Glasgow.The strategy of turning these obsolete lines into green parks and pathways could help provide green connections between a fragmented series of spaces. Speck (2013, p17) envisions that one of the benefits of these green connections could provide “opportunities for the chance encounters that turn into friendships”.

(7) Clyde Panorama, The iconic structures on the north bank of the River Clyde could be united by a green corridor Photo: RSC-Scotland.

describes the potential to create “communities with ‘street life’, the pedestrian culture which can only come from walkability”.

Montgomery (2013, p70) advocates creating spaces for the future which evoke a return to the past, when “city streets were for everyone. The road was a market, a playground, a park, and yes it was a thoroughfare, but there were no traffic lights, painted lines, or zebra crossings … it was a chaotic environment… but a messy kind of freedom reigned”.

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The disused rail tracks targeted are situated in spaces in North, East, South and West are listed below and are displayed on the following pages: North – Maryhill; Botanic Gardens; Ruchill to Possil Park South – Crookston; Nitshill; Gorbals East – High Street to Bridgeton Line > Duke Street and Glasgow Green; Dalmarnock West – Clydebank/Dalmuir Riverside; Jordanhill to Whiteinch; Partick Central; Stobcross.

These pocket parks coupled with a ‘greenway’ along the side of the River Clyde, could offer a plausible way to reconnect the city’s segments, as well as possibly enhancing the communities’ daily schedules with provision of green spaces either to walk through or simply be in.

N O R T H

(8) Maryhill Station. Courtesy of Ben Cooper.

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(9A) Botanic Gardens. Courtesy of Ben Cooper

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(9B) Botanic Gardens. Courtesy of Ben Cooper.

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(10A) Possilpark. Urban Glasgow

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(10B) Possilpark. Urban Glasgow.

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S O U T H

(11A) Crookston. Urban Glasgow

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(11B) Crookston Signal Box. Urban Glasgow

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(12) Nitshill. Courtesy of Alex Glass.

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(13A) Gorbals. Urban Glasgow

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(13B) Gorbals Highline. Twitter

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E A S T

(14) Bridgeton Cross. Urban Glasgow

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(15A) Entrance to Glasgow Green Station prior to demolition, with Templeton Carpet Factory in the Background. 2012 Urban Glasgow

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(15B) Glasgow Green. Urban Glasgow

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(16) Dalmarnock Retrieved. Urban Glasgow

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W E S T

(17) Clydebank Riverside. www.daves-trains.co.uk

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(18A) Whiteinch. Urban Glasgow

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(18B) Whiteinch Scotstoun West. www.daves-trains.co.uk

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(19A) Partick Central. Urban Glasgow

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(19B) Partick. Urban Glasgow

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(20A) Kelvinbridge to Stobcross. Courtesy of Ben Cooper

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(20b) Kelvinbridge Tunnel. Courtesy of Ben Cooper

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04

BIOLOGICAL CORRIDOR

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Biological corridors are also known as habitat corridors or green corridors featuring plants and animals (flora and fauna). Biological corridors are used as a way of linking the defragmented green habitats that already exist and which have been separated by urban sprawl, and can simply be considered to be “forests” that transport flora, fauna and small wildlife.

Reconnecting the city’s geographic zones through the use of a main connective biological corridor and pocket parks in each zone, entails the identification of feasible areas in Glasgow’s urban context. Such corridors could provide possibilities for reengaging communities by encouraging them to take ownership of these aspects of Glasgow’s urban context, providing future generations with an educational and safe public space and sense of place within their city.

As well as connecting sprawled spaces and providing routes for transportation of flora and fauna, allowing them to flourish naturally, these corridors also provide better routes for the public: for example, a safe, green space to walk through with pleasure and at leasure, slowing down before, during or after the hustle and bustle of daily commutes, breathing in fresh air instead of toxic fumes from the high speed roadside. This biogeographical approach to linking Glasgow’s city’s segments - north, south, east and west – suggests both opportunities and threats which are highlighted opposite.

Based on the simple analysis of spaces coupled with the analysis of precedents, it is possible to consider each of these issues in depth to enable an assessment of the viability of the biogeographical approach to the ‘ecological equation’.

The following questions can be posed: Is it a realistic and practical recovery strategy to suggest a biological corridor and pocket parks as a viable approach?

If flora and fauna were to flourish as biological corridors along the River Clyde, plus pocket parks developed using 52

Strengths

Educational purposes

Community engagement

Habitat awareness and ownership

Enhancing the city

Reconnecting the city’s sprawled segments

Removal of toxins Weaknesses

Cost

Building – disrupting areas/transport, etc.

Targeting areas/time management

Knowledge base needs to be enhanced

Difficulty involving communities at initial stage/ introduction Opportunities

Green corridors/parks could re-connect these segments

Green corridors/parks could enhance wildlife

Green corridors/parks could enhance greenery using regional flora

Green corridors/parks could enhance both public and wildlife movement

Climate change adaptations could be provided Threats A number of key factors need to be taken into account when considering the creation of biological corridors which might not be available or suitable – for example:

Provision of suitable land and site;

Width of the corridor;

Plants suitable to flourish;

Site contamination - e.g. brown field site;

Availability of irrigation

the obsolete rail tracks, could the strengths and opportunities outweigh the weaknesses and threats identified above?

Slow integration, completed in phases, would reduce any disruption and obstruction to surrounding areas, suggesting this recovery strategy is not only plausible, but also achievable.

The study of precedents can provide the extra knowledge and evidence required to inform this recovery strategy, and such studies are the subject of Chapter 5.

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05 The suggestion of an ecological equation as a recovery strategy appears plausible, as does the suggestion that it would benefit the city, transforming it from Grey to Green. The study of precedents can provide the extra knowledge and evidence required to realistically suggest this recovery strategy The focus on four key factors - Use of Space; Identity (sense of space and place); Re-connectivity; Quality of Space - is a logical approach to determine how successful each of the following projects is. This allows for conclusions, evaluations and recommendations about how these four key factors can be addressed similarly in Glasgow.

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CASE STUDIES 5.1 SINGELPARK, LEIDEN 5.2 NEW YORK CITY HIGH LINE 5.3 MANZANARES RIVER, MADRID 5.4 FRESH KILLS PARK, NEW YORK CITY

SINGELPARK LEIDEN

USE OF SPACE In 2012 the City Council of the Dutch city of Leiden launched an international competition to find a design for the city’s canal network.

The Council’s website (Gemeente Leiden, 2015) cites its responsibilities as:

• Spatial and regional planning

• Economy, employment and finance

• Environment and infrastructural planning

• Education and community issues

• Control of annual accounts

(21) Winning Design for Singelpark, Leiden. Lola Landscape Architects

As such, the purpose of the competition was to find an idea which created an urban park environment that would rank alongside the range of eminent public green spaces across Europe. However, at the heart of the winning proposal is the City Council’s philosophy to create an important green space for the people of the city, attracting those from the outskirts of the municipality, as well as its inner city. And by extension, if the development is a success at local level, it will also offer at additional attraction for the city’s many visitors and tourists, who already flock to the city for its history, arts, culture and conference facilities, as well as its proximity to the coast.

The successful design agencies, LOLA and Studio KARST, presented plans described as “convincing and thoughtful concepts for both the park as a whole, as well as for the role the park can play in Leiden’s future.” (Lenferink, as cited by Furuto, 2012).

(22) ‘A Place for the People of Leiden. Lola Landscape Architects

The logo consists of a ring of icons (buildings) that actually stand on the edge of the canals.

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The rings on the outside form the variables. These icons represent the possibilities open to visitors from every part of the park. The logo not only also gives a geographical view of the city park on the canals of Leiden, its design is dynamic enough that it can be changed. The logo for the Friends of the Singelpark is derived from this logo. The tulip is the icon of the first tulip Clusius brought to Leiden as first director Hortus Botanicus.

IDENTITY (SENSE OF SPACE AND PLACE) With Leiden’s canals already forming the backbone of the city, the Singelpark design takes existing arteries and transforms them into biological corridors linking different parts of the city and 16 individual green spaces. The city’s government hope to build and reconnect neighbourhoods in this way, by encouraging local groups to define how the space will be used, and also to take ownership of maintaining, caring for and finding ongoing uses for these community spaces.

(23) Singelpark logo incorporating iconic buildings along the canal. same-d 2-3-design

(24) The evocative tulip symbol in the same style as the Singelpark logo design has been adopted by the Friends of Singelpark. same-d 2-3-design

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The development will potentially extend to 1,000,000 square metres (100 hectares), encircled by a continuous six-kilometre stretch of interconnected green spaces. This green ribbon follows the old military fortifications which once protected the city’s historic centre, linking past and present.

The logo developed for the Singelpark evokes both the city’s history and the unifying, circular aspect of the design.

Circular, like the canal itself, it is made up of a series of icons depicting the buildings which line the canal. As the Friends of the Singelpark explain (Friends of the Singelpark, 2015): “These icons represent the possibilities from every part of the park. This creates a dynamic logo that can always change. A logo that also gives a geographical view of the city park on the canals of Leiden.”

(26) Energy Efficiency. Lola Landscape Architects

RECONNECTIVITY The city’s council believe that the Singelpark development could benefit business, tourism and education in a number of ways, according to their website (Gemeente Leiden, 2015)

(25) Riverview of Singelpark. Lola Landscape Architects

The life of the city is inexorably linked to the water - in fact, only the Netherlands’ largest city, Amsterdam, has more canals than Leiden, the city’s website reports (2015). In the historic centre itself 88 bridges criss-cross almost 30 kilometres of canals and waterways. So it is not surprising that this winning design takes its inspiration from the water.

The Singelpark design proposes the creation of continuous green corridors on either side of the canal, enhancing the experience of moving through the city for both pedestrians and boat-users. When complete, it will be the world’s only circular linear park, according to Landscape Architects LOLA: “.. one and only linear park that goes full circle, a single continuous space and ecological connection” (2012, p15).

• Leiden boasts an array of unique venues for business conferences and events, including a converted church, a concert hall and a number of museums themselves.

With so many of these venues in the historic heart of the city, with access to shops, restaurants and nightlife, the biological corridors of the Singelpark and the canals at its heart will offer a unique way of experiencing the city as a conference venue.

• The experience for tourists will also be enhanced, as the Singelpark scheme links so many of the city’s museums and historic buildings, shops and restaurants.

• By drawing on the expertise of the students and staff at the Hortus Botanicus, the development offers potential for mutual learning and exchange of ideas between botanists and local communities, who will be encouraged to take ownership for the cultivation and maintenance of their own discrete green space. This represents an opportunity to forge bonds, create community spirit and a shared sense of pride among the citizens of the municipality.

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QUALITY OF SPACE Leiden’s relationship with flora and fauna is underlined by the presence in the city of The Netherland’s oldest botanical garden, the Hortus Botanicus Leiden. One of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, the gardens were founded in 1590 and are now home to more than 10,000 botanical species and scores of bird species. It is described as “a green oasis” in the historic city centre, housing plants from Asia, Southern Europe and South Africa (Universiteit Leiden, 2014). Indeed, it was to these gardens that the tulip was first introduced in the late 16th century - now the flower synonymous with the country. So naturally the winning design draws heavily on the influences and expertise of the staff and students at the Hortus Botanicus, to plant a vibrant mix of plants and flowers which not only pay homage to the city’s past, but maximising green life creates colourful corridors linking 16 separate park spaces to the water line.

In conclusion, Leiden’s project is an example of how a biological approach could enhance day-to-day city life; giving the city’s inhabitants a valued public space that reconnects neighbourhoods; enhancing visitor’s experience of the city’s historic landmarks.

(27) Bridges of Leiden. Lola Landscape Architects

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NEW YORK CITY HIGH LINE INTRODUCING THE NEW YORK HIGH LINE When political will converges with individuals’ altruistic intentions, and a community’s aspirations, the result can be a project which not only breathes new life into an industrial relic, but also enhances the wellbeing of the surrounding communities, and boosts the area’s economic resilience. This is the story of Manhattan’s High Line, a new public park built on top of a 1930s freight rail line which runs 30 feet above the west side of Manhattan island in New York City. (City of New York, date unknown) First elevated to end the death toll of unfortunate pedestrians crossing the line when it operated at ground level, this freight line had fallen into disuse by the 1980s, and seemed destined for demolition. The city’s mayor, local businesses and property owners were all content to see the eyesore demolished.

But two men saw not an eyesore, but “a mile and a half of wildflowers running right through the middle of Manhattan with views of the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty and the Hudson River.” (Hammond, 2011).

Robert Hammond and Joshua David, co-founders of ‘Friends of the High Line’, not only wanted to save the structure from demolition. They also saw the untapped potential of the high line’s wildscape to attract New Yorkers and visitors alike, and to regenerate the surrounding area. A change of city mayor, combined with a compelling argument about the potential financial benefits of such a development, saw the pair join forces with the city’s decision-makers to turn around public and political opinion, and the first mile-and-a-half section of the high line officially opened in 2009, as Hammond recounted in 2011.

(28) Aerial View of New York City High Line, 2011. Passport to Design

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USE OF SPACE The vision behind the High Line was to preserve the elevated railway and transform it into a public park - 30 feet above ground.

(29) High Line before development, Malcolm Pinkney.

The High Line is now the setting for community landscaping projects powered by volunteers, expressive drama displays from local schools, fitness classes, seating areas, natural planting displays, specially commissioned public art installations, and more than 100 public events throughout the summer, including dance performances, poetry readings, family arts workshops, nature scavenger hunts for youngsters, salsa dancing, film screenings … and all free or very cheap, and open to city-dwellers and tourists.

The High Line’s design has stayed true to both the railway’s industrial heritage, and to the natural flora that took root and spread wildly after the freight trains stopped operating in 1980. For example, the original railway tracks have been retained, along with the line’s Art Deco steel railings; and the wild flowers and shrubbery now form integrated planted areas criss-crossed with pathways, seating areas and activity areas.

The City of New York owns the High Line, but it is maintained by Friends of the High Line, who first campaigned against its demolition and now work with the Parks and Recreation Department to preserve and enhance it. There are ten points of access to the park, half of which have elevator access to ensure that the space is accessible to visitors with a disability.

(30) Proposal for waterways alongside paths. Friends of the High Line.

Photo: New York City Department of Parks & Recreation

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To date, the High Line has cost around $150 million to regenerate.

Friends of the High Line’s economic argument to achieve this funding was that over a 20-year period, the regenerated High Line would bring around $250 million to the City of New York through a combination of increased property values and taxes. A more current estimate is double that amount - a staggering $500 million in tax revenues.

IDENTITY (SENSE OF SPACE AND PLACE) Michael Young, chronicling the history of the High Line (Young, 2009), explains the key role of community buy-in to the retention of the High Line. With local property owners originally supporting the demolition of the rail line, he explains: “… many negotiations took place involving surrounding residents and businesses who owned private property in the area … The Parks Department’s mission was to make the owners understand that allowing the High Line to stay in place would add to the value of their property.”

Not only have local communities given their approval to the development, many have also become integral partners in the High Line’s ongoing maintenance and continued evolution.

One example of how the local community takes responsibility for the ongoing horticultural health of the park, is the annual “Spring Cutback”, which sees scores of local volunteers from the Chelsea and Meatpacking districts take part in the most significant horticultural event of the park year. The Cutback involves two teams, using only hand tools, working inwards from opposite ends of the High Line, trimming back textured grasses, stalks and dried seed pods over a number of weeks, in preparation for new plant life. More than 110,000 plants are trimmed back during late March and early April. Many conventional gardens traditionally trim back these “dead” plants before winter, but these skeletal forms are an integral part of the park’s winter landscape, in keeping with the original vision of planting designer Piet Oudolf. (Friends of the High Line, 2015).

(31) The Park in the Sky. Photo by Iwan Baan 2009

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RECONNECTIVITY Robert Hammond, co-founder of Friends of the High Line, who campaigned first of all to save the line from demolition and then to devise alternative uses for it, explained that he was first attracted to the High Line’s steel structure - “an industrial relic”. But when he had the opportunity to experience the city from the overgrown rail line, 30 feet in the air, his vision of an elevated park took form: “… let’s make this a park, and let’s have it be … inspired by this wildscape.” (Hammond, 2009).

That vision has not only preserved a piece of industrial history and become an iconic part of the Manhattan cityscape; it has breathed fresh life into the surrounding areas and reconnected fractured communities. The New York City Department of Parks & Recreation reported in July 2012 that the High Line was now “a powerful catalyst for private investment”. The surrounding area had been rezoned in 2005, and this change of use, combined with the development of the park, is reported to have helped generate $2 billion in private investment, 12,000 jobs, 2,558 new residential units, 1,000 hotel rooms, more than 400,000 square feet of new office space and 85,000 square feet of new art gallery space. And appropriately, around half of the 8 million people who have visited the park since it first opened are New Yorkers themselves. (City of New York, 2012).

(32) Views of Manhattan impossible from the ground, 2011. Fastco Design

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QUALITY OF SPACE As well as preserving an important example of the city’s industrial heritage, the creation of the park has also acted as a springboard for new architecture and given residents and visitors a close-up view of some of Manhattan’s most iconic structures.

Buildings designed by Shigeru Ban, Neil Denari, Frank Gehry and Jean Nouvel can all be seen from one vantage point on the High Line, and a substantial extension to the Whitney Museum of Modern Art has been designed by Renzo Piano.

The third section of the High Line even brings visitors fresh views of Manhattan’s architectural landmarks, the Chrysler Building, the Empire State Building and the New Yorker Hotel.

Other artistic enterprises have also flourished as a result of the High Line’s regeneration. For example, The Friends of the High Line marked the opening of the latest section of park by commissioning four new pieces of public art, including a sculpture by Sarah Sze, and a sound art installation by Julianne Swartz. Surrounding spaces have also been put to use, enhancing visitors’ experience of the High Line space itself - for example, to complement a new rooftop sculpture by Kim Beck, a dance company has performed on the rooftops which run alongside the High Line.

In conclusion, the High Line can be considered a stunning urban example of how it is possible to fundamentally change the way we understand and use derelict industrial structures and open space; and at the same time it gives visitors to the park a sense of the city’s industrial heritage and iconic architecture which would be impossible to view from any other vantage point.

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MANZANARES RIVER This case study describes the regeneration of the river Manzanares, which flows through the centre of the Spanish capital, Madrid.

USE OF SPACE Both the Manzanares and the River Clyde start in the hills and disgorge into the Atlantic Ocean, but there the similarity ends.

Whereas the Manzanares is 92km (57 miles) long, the Clyde is an astonishing 106 miles (170 km) long. The River Clyde lay at the industrial heart of Glasgow for centuries, but with the decline of the shipbuilding industry, Glasgow needed to find a new identity for its river; paradoxically, as Valerie Gladstone points out (Global Post online, 2011), in Madrid locals tended to look on their little river with “disdain”, until a €420 million project to reclaim it transformed it into a hub of community activity.

The renovated three-mile stretch of river now flows through a new 300-acre landscape featuring 33,000 and 460,000 planted trees and bushes (Blick, 2011), gardens, riverside parkland, innovative footbridges and fountains, as well as offering a range of sporting activities, from climbing walls to playgrounds, football pitches to skateparks, a 20,000-capacity concert space, restaurants and cafes.

With no coastline and temperatures regularly hitting 100º F in the summer months, Madrid can now offer visitors and locals their own man-made beach as part of the Rio de Madrid park project. The “beach” itself is actually a series of three pools, a fountain, and water jets, popularised in other Spanish cities, such as Palma and Madrid’s fierce rival, Barcelona.

(34) The Manzanares River landscape, 2011. http://www.e-architect. co.uk/madrid/madrid-rio-landscape

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Reminiscent of the rejuvenation of Manhattan’s old meatpacking district thanks to the High Line, Madrid’s abandoned slaughterhouses at the south end of the river, have been transformed into a centre for the arts.

IDENTITY (SENSE OF SPACE AND PLACE) Iberosphere Blogger James Blick (2011) points to the “astounding feat of urban renewal” which started in 2003, when the city took the bold step of “burying” 26 miles of the M30 motorway in underground tunnels, taking road traffic away from the riverside. This move not only cut down pollution around the river, it also created the potential for the riverbanks to be reborn as greenbelt. In addition, with the removal of the motorways, the extent of the river’s decline became more obvious. The Municipality of Madrid therefore launched an international competition in 2005 to find proposals to make use of the reclaimed land. The winning design team was led by Design Director Gines Garrido, of Burgos & Garrido Arquitectos Asociados.

In an article for Architecture News Plus (ANP) the firm explained the benefits of freeing the river from the artificial constraints the roads had placed on the river: “With the building of the highway the river got con strained on both sides by road lanes … the river bed became completely isolated, inaccessible and invisible.”

(Architecture News Plus (ANP), 2011) Not only did the roads create a barrier between the river and the city, the destruction of the river’s footbridges “broke the historic connection” between the communities on opposite sides of the river.

(34) Aerial view of the Manzanares River, 2011. West 8 Landscape Architects

The winning design therefore made use of the entire available area to connect commercial, residential, civic and cultural buildings through a series of green open spaces, a plaza and a riverbank park.

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RE-CONNECTIVITY Described by architects Morphosis as a “new urban environment” (Morphosis, 2011), the Manzanares River Park Development has become one of the central features of 21st century Madrid. Traditionally seen as a barrier, the redeveloped stretch of the river now acts as a link between disconnected parts of the city, the river and the city centre.

During a visit to the newly completed park in 2011, Design Director Gines Garrido summed up the impact of the transformation of the riverbank area: “The people in those once isolated neighborhoods now have some of the best views in town.” (Garrido, cited by Gladstone, 2011).

Making further links to the surrounding cityscape, and its cultural heritage, even the choice of trees planted in the park was influenced by those in the Campo del Moro Gardens near the Royal Palace, again uniting the new landscape with the existing urban identity.

(35) Vision for the Salon de Pinos. Jeroen Musch

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(36) Vision becomes reality. West 8 Landscape Architects

QUALITY OF SPACE The regeneration of the Manzanares is working on a number of levels, from local to regional, from water’s edge to city centre.

At the water’s edge, the riverbank itself has been redeveloped to bring local people and visitors closer to nature through a series of open green spaces. These spaces create “a chain of green spaces” (Architecture News Plus (ANP), 2011) spreading out to the city itself. Regionally, the park is part of the GR124 (Great Route of the European Network Paths), which means that it is part of a walking route which leads all the way to the town of Aranjuez, 42 km south of the city.

In conclusion, Glasgow could structure future green developments using a similar approach to that adopted by the Manzanares Park Project, which led to three distinct areas of redevelopment: •A green corridor known as el salón de pinos, running along the right river bank. This corridor connects the various pathways and intersects with the bridges which cross the river.

•Views over and links to the historic centre of Madrid from a 1,700 hectare park.

•The development’s largest green space, on the left side of the river, which includes the Matadero Contemporary Arts Centre.

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FRESH KILLS PARK, NEW YORK CITY The Fresh Kills Park Project is New York City’s ambitious 30year master plan which is transforming a scar on the landscape into 2,200 acres of beautiful and sustainable recreational, educational and cultural parkland.

The ambition to reclaim the world’s largest landfill site - also at one time the world’s largest man-made structure (Lloyd, J & Mitchinson, J, 2006, pp 114-115) - was first articulated in 2001 with the commissioning of a Draft Master Plan, and since the Plan’s 2006 publication the city’s Parks Department has been responsible for turning the conceptual plan into reality.

USE OF SPACE The aims of the project (City of New York, 2014, online) are not only to “create a world-class, large scale park”, restore the landscape and offer a variety of recreational activities, but also to create a network of ecologically friendly roads, giving visitors access while cutting back traffic congestion and pollution. Most poignantly, where before there were towers of rubbish, a vast monument “the same size and scale of the original twin towers” (City of New York, 2006, p9), will be created. This will be a tribute to the site’s role following the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Centre, when around one third of the rubble from Ground Zero was sifted through at the site in an attempt to find human remains.

The site will ultimately have five sections - a central area where the two creeks meet (the Confluence), and North, South, East and West areas, all of which promise a combination of “natural and engineered beauty” (The Fresh Kills Park Alliance, 2014, online) offering a range of uses, including “cultural, athletic and educational programming” (The City of New York, 2014, online) as well as views across to the city of New York.

(37) Freshkills - Five Parks in One. New York City.

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The range of activities on offer will be in keeping with the particular nature of each section of the park. For example, designated paths for walking and cycling will circle the 223acre Northern mound; and the 482-acre East park will be home to a nature education area, wetlands accessed by decked walkways, and art installations, while its large mound will also be suitable for sports ranging from golf to archery.

The Confluence, as its name suggests, will be at the heart of the entire park, bringing together water and land-based activities across two areas, from canoeing to specialist restaurants, picnic and sunbathing areas, an open-air market, sports fields and public lawns.

IDENTITY (SENSE OF SPACE AND PLACE) Extensive consultation took place with the public over two years (The City of New York, 2006, p5), which has given the park Master Plan a distinctive character and sense of neighbourhood. The Master Plan pays homage to the history of the site, as well as the city it overlooks: from the enormous Twin Towers monument in the west, to the use of old landfill site machinery in the Confluence area and even the transformation of old barges into floating gardens.

(38) Aerial View of Fresh Kills Park. Field Operations

(39) Green Against Grey. View across to New York City from Fresh Kills Park. Field Operations

The Plan also emphasises the need for continued engagement with the public, to ensure it reflects their “needs, desires and dreams�. The mixture of uses and recovery approaches detailed in the master plan acknowledges these needs. For example, the public wanted recreational and sports facilities, restaurants, educational and cultural events and spaces - but also emphasised the need to protect, enhance and develop peaceful walkways and natural habitats, landscapes and waterscapes. Other aspirations captured during public consultation included the desire to generate energy from solar, wind, water and methane power; the location of commercial premises in the centre of the park; and the use of commercial franchises to raise revenue. (City of New York, 2006, p5)

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RECONNECTIVITY Writing in the Draft Master Plan, James P Mollinaro, Staten Island Borough President, emphasised the opportunities presented by the Fresh Kills project, indicative of the desire to reconnect the former landfill site with the city: “That’s the key point here: life within a landscape. For the emphasis will never again be on degradation and decomposition but on renewal and rebirth. And it is also the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to recapture what was lost, to rediscover and reincorporate into Staten Island’s geography almost 3,000 acres of land and a roadway system that I, for one, thought was lost to us.” City of New York, 2006, p12)

Indeed, the opportunity to link neighbourhoods, and make the park accessible from the nearby motorway without causing traffic congestion, were also highlighted by the public as important aspects (City of New York, 2006, p2). Therefore in addition to a 40-mile network of walking, cycling and riding paths, seven miles of park drives will also circulate through the site, with entrances and exits from the nearby motorway.

Due to the vastness of the Fresh Kills Park site, the reclamation started from the outer perimeter of the site. In this way, the people living closest to the area (and who therefore will be the first to experience the disruption inevitably involved in such a large-scale redevelopment) will also be the first to reap the benefits of the transformation.

Connecting back to the city of New York’s recent tragic history, one could argue that the reclamation of the land, and its transformation into an area of natural beauty and community activity, are symbolic of the renewal of New Yorkers’ spirits following 9/11.

The Confluence area is a prime example of how the five discrete expanses of the park will come together and connect.

Not only is a confluence a “place where two rivers meet”, it is also defined as “a coming together; a crowd of people” (Concise Oxford Dictionary of Current English (1990). When finished this will be the cultural and recreational heart of the park, complete with waterfront.

One could argue, therefore, that all the key factors in creating a greenway from an area that has fallen from grace come together in this area.

(40) Visions for Fresh Kills Park - sport. Field Operations

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QUALITY OF SPACE

(41) Visions for Fresh Kills Park - Safe Place. Field Operations

One of the most compelling driving forces behind the reclamation of the Fresh Kills site, according to the public, was “concern for our human impact on the earth” (The Fresh Kills Park Alliance, 2014, online). As such, the quality of the ecological transformation is underlined by the innovative combination of reclaimed land and newly designed land - on and beside the water, in meadows, and in parkland - which will be attractive to visitors but also encourage flora and fauna to flourish. The height of the site also means that there will be spectacular vistas across to the city itself, in particular from the West area, home to the Twin Towers monument. This sector will present a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape and, fittingly, an axis to lower Manhattan, site of Ground Zero.

In conclusion, Glasgow can look to Freshkills Park Project as an inspiring example of how each segment – north, south, east, west and the confluence – have been strategically developed by using a phased master plan. Each segment can become unique (pocket parks focusing on different activities), yet can be connected to a constant space (green connector along the River Clyde).

(42) Visions for Fresh Kills Park - Nature. Field Operations

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GLASGOW GOALS

International case studies can help identify what has worked for other cities, as well as the prolonged benefits each project has had on the city and its people.

STALLED SPACES OPENSPACE

Glasgow City Council has declared that the overall ambition for 2015 is “Glasgow’s Green 2015 - From Steam to Green”. (Glasgow City Council, 2015). In this chapter, what has been done, is being done, and is planned for the city’s future are explored and explained.

The overall ambition is split into monthly, manageable goals to help target specific aspects that will allow the city to achieve the image of a Green Glasgow.

Local project groups and strategies explained in this chapter have been submitted to Glasgow City Council to help broaden the council’s knowledge base and support them to fulfil Glasgow’s Green 2015 initiatives.

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STALLED SPACES GLASGOW WHO?

Stalled Spaces Scotland is a Glasgow City Council-run initiative focusing on the capture and transformation of vacant space and derelict sites all over Scotland, and in particular Glasgow, into a range of innovative and creative project enhanced public spaces.

The programme is led primarily by the Scottish Government and ‘Architecture and Design Scotland’ with funding received from local authorities to help support current and future research and development.

Since 2011, 22 hectares of unproductive, derelict land have been targeted with the vision of transforming them into community assets with help from local people.

• pop up sculpture • green gym/ play space/ outdoor exercise • exhibition space • outdoor education • arts project • event space • urban beach • pop up park • growing space

WHERE?

Highlighted on the map are a few of the most recent targeted vacant spaces in Glasgow.

WHY?

The main objective has concentrated on targeting vacant and derelict land with the aim of reversing economic downfall, as well as providing opportunities to enhance public health and wellbeing and engage communities.

WHAT?

Anyone – schools, clubs, friends, families, organisations, individuals – can get involved in creating a space of which they can take ownership. Stalled Spaces have made some suggestions for how spaces could possibly be transformed (Glasgow City Council, 2015, online): (43) Vacant Spaces – Pecha Kusha 21: Pretty Vacant 21. Suau et al

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Glasgow City Council (2015, online) has also published details of completed projects:

(44A) Parkhead Education. Glasgow City Council

(45A) Shettleston Community Growing Project. Glasgow City Council

(44B) Parkhead Community. Glasgow City Council

(45B) Shettleston Community Growing Project. Glasgow City Council

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(46A) Maryhill Integration Network - Avenuepark Street. Glasgow City Council

(47A) Elderpark Before. Glasgow City Council

46B) Maryhill Integration Network - Avenuepark Street. Glasgow City Council

(47B) Elderpark After. Glasgow City Council

SUMMARY

What is clearly evident in the recent projects captured on pages 75 to 77 is the effect that they have had on local communities, bringing all ages together as a team to take pride in creating their own public space.

Education, public involvement, activity levels, artistic opportunities, community ownership and engagement are just a few of the aspects that have been provided through the creation of a Stalled Space.

Overall, Glasgow City Council can justifiably say that this initiative quite simply enhances “an individual’s sense of wellbeing.” (Glasgow City Council, 2015, online) (48A) Castlemilk Youth Complex Cycle Cinema. Glasgow City Council

(48B) Castlemilk Youth Complex Cycle Cinema. Glasgow City Council

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OPEN SPACE INTRODUCTION

The Glasgow Open Space Strategy: Consultative Draft published by Glasgow City Council (Glasgow City Council, URS Corporation, AECOM, 2011) is a valuable resource that supports the view that the suggested ecological equation proposed in this dissertation is highly plausible.

The in-depth research, analytical and diagrammatic studies quantify highly complex aspects that are outwith the scope of this dissertation.

However reference to the recommendations, evaluations and evidence in this open source of information leads to the conclusion that the suggestions in Grey to Green to introduce a linear biological corridor and pocket parks are a realistic part of a wider recovery strategy and could be integrated into Glasgow’s urban context.

The Open Space strategy concentrates on six main themes that have been dealt with in detail (pp1-10) Each theme sets out objectives that will hopefully fulfil the strategy’s aspirations and desired outcome that “open space should be planned, created, enhanced and managed in order to meet the priorities for Glasgow for the 21st century”.

The six main themes tie in with the key factors addressed in Chapter 5: Case Studies (use of space, identity, reconnectivity, quality of space), thus suggesting that the ideas posed in this dissertation could be integrated into the wider priorities set out in the strategy, regenerating Glasgow’s green spaces and vacant spaces within the urban setting.

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The six priority themes are: 1.Place setting for improved economic and community vitality 2.Health benefits and well‐being 3.Creating connections 4.Improving ecological quality 5.Enhancing natural processes and generating resources 6.Managing the micro‐climate.

1. Place setting for improved economic and community vitality Similar to Grey To Green’s key factor of Identity, this priority theme concentrates on providing a sense of space and place.

Amenities, stalled spaces, and safe spaces for pedestrians within the urban realm could help provide a sense of public empowerment, while also maintaining a sense of Glaswegian identity through incorporation with iconic city elements. If each neighbourhood is enhanced – north, south, east and west then the city as a whole will benefit and a spirit of citizenship has the potential to flourish.

2. Health benefits and well‐being Similar to Grey To Green’s key factors of Reconnectivity and Use of Space, this priority theme focuses on improving outdoor opportunities to play, exercise, and be able to walk, cycle, and commute safely, recalling Aalto’s aspiration that ”A person should be able to walk through a forest on their way home from work” (Alto, cited by Aitoa Arkkitechtuuria, 2008).

The concept of ‘Healthy Urban Planning’ (Glasgow City Council, URS Corporation, AECOM, 2011, p4) concentrates on the provision of spaces that are attractive and provide amenities, as well as routes for cyclists and pedestrians. This focus has potential to enhance activity levels, health and connectivity to the city.

3. Creating connections This priority theme dovetails with Grey To Green’s key factor of Reconnectivity, the main ecological equation proposed in Chapter 2: Introduction and suggestions as to how pocket parks could be used in Chapter 4: Recovery Strategy.

Glasgow City Council’s strategy proposes a focus on creating a green infrastructure that will help to encourage healthy commuting options by making these routes not only attractive spaces to be in, but also easily accessible from the urban fabric and centres of employment and commerce.

The green infrastructure comprising a biological corridor and pocket parks proposed in Grey to Gxreen supports Glasgow City Council’s priority theme to improve “the quality of the underutilised space through planning, lighting and art installations” (2011, p81).

(49) Openspace Ecological Connections Part 3, taken from Glasgow Open Space Strategy: Consultation Draft (2011). Glasgow City Council

4. Improving ecological quality Similar to Grey To Green’s key factor of Quality of Space, Glasgow City Council’s strategy offers in-depth analysis of the ecological opportunities that could be provided as a result of strengthening an ecological network along main transport corridors of road, rail and river.

Glasgow is primarily a brownfield site, therefore the first phase of creating a healthy, safe biological corridor is the removal of toxins within the soil by phytoremediation. This is the process whereby plants basically draw any toxins from the soil through their roots and then the plant can be disposed of safely.

This is a fundamental first step in creating a new biological corridor, by creating an ecological environment which supports the Glasgow City Biodiversity Action Plan. This plan identifies the local habitats and species which need to be protected and whose needs have to be balanced with the ambition to establish new ecological corridors and networks.

(50) Openspace Part 4 Local Flora and Fauna takenn from Glasgow Open Space Strategy: Consultation Draft (2011). Glasgow City Council

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Glasgow’s existing waterways are an important component in developing ecological networks. Hence it is imperative not only to consider the movement of people along and across the Clyde, but also to protect biodiversity within ecological corridors - for example, safeguarding the range of fish species indigenous to the waters of the Clyde, Kelvin and Cart. Similarly, there are opportunities to adopt water-sensitive urban design approaches to capture, store and cleanse surface water run‐off.

5. Enhancing natural processes and generating resources Echoing Glasgow City Council’s Open Space Strategy, Grey to Green’s Recovery Strategy proposals for the creation of pocket parks offer possibilities to improve air quality, manage surface water flow and quality, and reduce pollutants - particularly through the creation of community-owned or managed spaces such as allotments. The impact of community activity on the health and wellbeing of individuals is well documented.

For example, many GPs now offer the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers’ Green Gym sessions. These offer people the opportunity to improve their fitness by participating in conservation activities such as woodland management, horticulture, tree and hedge planting and enhancement of green space and footpaths. (British Trust for Conservation Volunteers, 2015, online).

The pocket parks approach lends itself to the Open Space strategy, which promotes the creation of “multifunctional” “parks, open space and green networks … for example offering water treatment alongside amenity improvements that encourage recreation and support biodiversity.” (Glasgow City Council, URS Corporation, AECOM, 2011, p117)

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(51) Open Space Part 5 Water Filtration Diagram. Taken from Glasgow Open Space Strategy: Consultation Draft (2011). Glasgow City Council

6. Managing the micro‐climate The development of a biological corridor and network of pocket parks supports the ecological argument set out in Glasgow City Council’s Open Space Strategy (2011, pp119-120). Such green spaces have a significant role to play in reducing city temperatures by as much as 4oC, with appropriate tree planting reducing building temperatures by up to 30 per cent, green spaces of as little as one hectare generating their own micro-climate and trees and vegetation providing shelter from high winds.

(52) Openspace Table 3.1 Outcomes. Summary Of Potential Open Space Benefits. Taken from Glasgow Open Space Strategy: Consultation Draft (2011). Glasgow City Council

Open space is designated for a variety of primary functions.

However, planned and designed open space provides a much wider range of benefits. The table above shows possible enhancements that could occur environmentally, economically and socially; therefore enhancing every aspect of city life.

Our communities could become happier, healthier, safer, greener places to take pride in. Couple these benefits with greater job and investment prospects, and enhanced educational opportunities, Glasgow could grow from a grey foundation to a sustainable green metropolis.

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EVALUATION RECOMMENDATIONS CONCLUSION

In this section an overall analysis of the factors addressed by and conclusions drawn from the case studies will be used to consider the effectiveness of the Recovery Strategy set out in Grey to Green. This section demonstrates how the proposed pocket parks and biological corridor could be utilised within Glasgow.

By evaluating the same factors in each case and applying these to Glasgow, it is possible to draw realistic recommendations based on which approaches and initiatives have worked, and those that have not.

Vacant space could be redeveloped into public space full of activity: the pocket parks enhancing individual communities; the greenway alongside the River Clyde enhancing the whole city. Montgomery (2013, p95) suggests that individuals and indeed communities can feel lost in a “perfectly ordered environment and its vast, empty spaces”, and are in fact naturally drawn to “places where disorder and complexity led to serendipitous encounters with sights, scents and other people.”

The diagrams on pages 84 to 87 suggest how spaces can be designed to evoke this natural, organic, collective space that mix “living, working, recreation and other functions” (Montgomery, 2013, p94).

The four key factors analysed in each case study can now be applied to Glasgow. Each factor can be used to determine the use, identity, reconnectivity and quality of the spaces suggested in “Grey to Green: The Ecological Equation.”

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1. USE How the public can use and benefit from the green spaces are illustrated in these diagrams.

The space could become a public space – on ground, overground, underground – these options provide unique pocket parks and areas along the River Clyde. 53A (Below) Public commuting options could be enhanced - again relating back to Alvar Aalto’s vision of the daily communte: ”A person should be able to walk through a forest on their way home from work” (Aitoa Arkkitechtuuria; 2008). 53B (Right) Space can provide for different activities, which could result in enhanced health and activity levels of the users as more options for movement are provided.

53C (Bottom right)

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(53A) Use of Space. Public Space - On Ground, Overground, Underground. Author’s sketch.

(53B) Use of Space. Public Space - Enhanced Commuting Options.

Author’s sketch.

(53A) Use of Space. Public Space -Enhanced Health and Activity Levels of Users. Author’s sketch.

2.IDENTITY (SENSE OF SPACE AND PLACE) Maintaining the Glasgow spirit should be considered through integration of the Ecological Equation.

Encouraging community involvement in the creation of biological corridors can create a sense of community. 54A (Right) describes this equation: empowerment + ownership = community spirit = city spirit As well as possible enhancement to the city as a whole, the biological approach can also help to create unique neighbourhoods in each segment.

54B (Bottom right) displays how each segment is unique and therefore all dealt with slightly differently. However, all could benefit and all could be enhanced and as a result a heightened neighbourhood spirit could result in an enhanced city spirit.

(54A) Identity (Sense of Space and Place). Greater Sense of Community: Community Spirit = City Spirit = Empowerment + Ownership.

Author’s sketch.

Throughout the integration from Stage 0 onwards the maintenance and respect of historic and iconic elements of Glasgow 54C (Below) should be taken into consideration.

(54C) Identity (Sense of Space and Place). Maintenance of and Respect for Historic/Iconic Elements of Glasgow. Author’s sketch.

(54B) Identity (Sense of Space and Place). Unique Neighbourhoods: All Benefit + All Enhanced = Neighbourhood Spirit = City Spirit.

Author’s sketch.

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3.RECONNECTIVITY The importance of the connected city is emphasised throughout Grey to Green. The provision of spaces to walk connected to transit areas is an important feature of a connected city. Being re-connected could allow all the other benefits and activities described to occur, and for people’s day-to-day lives to become enhanced.

(55B) Reconnectivity: Nodes Identified for Pocket Parks In NSEW – Reuse of Derelict Rail lines as Green Pockets of Public Space. Author’s sketch.

The city’s sprawled segments could be re-connected (NSEW) with a green linear corridor along the River Clyde. 55A (Below) The linear Clyde corridor can then be coupled with the nodes identified for pocket parks in north, east, south, and west. 55B (Right) shows where we can reuse derelict rail lines as green pockets of public space in each city segment.

The biological corridor and identified pocket parks need to be connected to city fabric – being easily accessible to and from transit modes (train/car/bike), could encourage a greater use of the green spaces.

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(55A) Reconnectivity: Linking City Segments (NSEW) with Green Linear Clyde Corridor.

Author’s sketch.

(55C) Places of interest near transit routes. http-:/www.scotiana.com/ wp-content/uploads/2010/01/Glasgow-subway-places-of-interest-St-Enoch-Buchanan-Street-map.jpg

4. QUALITY OF SPACE The final factor addressed is the quality of space. The main enhancements biological corridors could provide to Glasgow are evident in the case studies: • • • •

Maximisation of flora and fauna Valued and appreciated public space Minimised pollution and noise levels Safe environments provided in which to work, play and learn (56C) Quality Of Space. Safe Environments Provided to Work/Play/Learn. Author’s sketch.

(56A) Quality Of Space. Maximisation of flora and fauna. Author’s sketch.

(56B) Quality Of Space. Aiming to Minimise Pollution and Noise Levels. Author’s sketch.

(56D) Quality Of Space. Public Space Is Valued. Author’s sketch.

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POCKET PARKS Pocket parks in each of the city’s segments could provide the beneficial aspects explored above. Utilisation of derelict railway lines is a creative and useful re-adaptation of unused space within the city fabric. Safe spaces to grow, sell, eat, play, walk through and to, could be provided (shown in the author’s sketches on pages 88 to 91). By reconfiguring these derelict sites into green landscapes, parks and spaces of recreation, each city segment could be enhanced. Options for reconfiguration of these spaces are displayed in figures 57A to 58H.

(57B) Markets And Fairs. Author’s sketch.

(57C) Relaxing and Socialising. Author’s sketch.

(57A) Plots and Vegetable Gardens. Author’s sketch.

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(57D) Exercise and Activity Opportunities Enhanced (A Place to Play). Author’s sketch.

(57E) A Safe Place for all Ages and Activities.

Author’s sketch.

(58A) Curtain Wall. Author’s sketch.

(57F) Through Routes to Enhance Journeys. Author’s sketch.

(58B) Bike Stands. Author’s sketch.

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(58C) Art Installations. Author’s sketch.

(58D) Water Features. Author’s sketch.

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(58E) Vertical Greening. Author’s sketch.

(58F) Outdoor Cinema. Author’s sketch.

The diversity of options outlined on pages 88 to 91 resonates with Montgomery’s recipe for creating an urban environment that promotes human wellbeing: “We need to walk, just as birds need to fly. We need to be around other people. We need beauty. We need contact with nature. And most of all, we need not to be excluded. We need to feel some sort of equality.” (Montgomery, 2013, p4).

The most important and transitional stage of the integration of the ecological equation is stage 0: the process of phytoremediation. The removal of all toxins from the soil could enable the proposal, feasibility and end result of the biological integration to provide the space described by Montgomery above.

(58G) Performance Space. Author’s sketch.

Phytoremediation is possibly the most beneficial part of the whole ecological equation: the main advantage being that it is cheap in comparison to other toxin removal processes such as excavation or soil replacement.

Depending on the area and contamination of the soil there are various treatments – phyto-volatilisation, phyto-degradation, phyto-stabilisation and phyto-extraction. These are described in figure 59 on page 92. The plants used, and the toxins to be removed, will determine the choice of soil treatment.

(58H) Lighting. Author’s sketch.

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(59) Methods of Phyto Treatment. Reproduced from The Field Guide to Phytoremediation

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A standard methodology for the implementation of a programme of phytoremediation of contaminated sites involves the following 7 steps: 1.Collection of a soil sample.

2. Analysis of soil sample in a local laboratory.

3. Construction of a strategy using lab results to determine which plants would best remove the toxins present.

4. Start of planting. Involvement of the public in Stage 0. Public engagement from the beginning is highly valuable for future development.

5. Harvesting and replanting every 14 weeks, allowing for slight seasonal variations.

6. Safe disposal of the harvested plants - with accumulated toxins and poisonous waste.

7.Retesting of the treated soil to determine if it is now toxinfree and ready to move to the next stage of the ecological equation.

Examples of levels of acceptable soil contamination for recreational, residential or food production activities are illustrated in figure 60 (New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, 2006). The analyitical data in this table can be used to identify which plant material would be most effective in remediating Glasgow’s brownfield soil.

There is also a considerable, established body of research and field work which has identified plants that are most effective at removing metal contaminants from soil. Mutations of sunflower plants and variants of tobacco plants have been shown to be particularly effective (Herzig et al, 2014) in one and five-year trials to remove low to elevated levels of zinc contamination. A five-year experiment in Switzerland found that zinc levels could be lowered by between 45% and 70%; while a further experiment in 2011 with an enlarged site saw a reduction of 58% after just one year after harvest.

(60) Guide to levels of aceptable soil contamination, reproduced from The Field Guide to Phytoremediation

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The result of phytoremediation would be the removal of toxins present in the soil in Glasgow, enabling the creation of natural, regional biological corridors and pocket parks – nothing imported or replaced; minimised waste; no site disruptions; and minimal labour required.

Such factors can help gain acceptance from the public and interest from other project bases and groups, who could see the opportunity as simple and affordable, yet beneficial.

Phytoremediation would remove toxins present in the soil in brownfield sites, enabling the creation of natural, regional biological corridors and pocket parks – nothing imported or replaced; minimised waste; no site disruptions; and minimal labour required.

Such factors can help gain acceptance from the public and interest from other project bases and groups, who could see the opportunity as simple and affordable, yet beneficial.

In conclusion, for such a broad proposal to be feasible the final recommendation is that analysis and on-going public consultation could take place throughout the staged integration of the biological corridor and pocket parks. This analysis could form a critical element of the development of a draft master plan to help progress a staged and structured integration with minimal problems or disruptions.

The draft master plan could result in a body of extensive site analysis, community needs assessment and outreach, consideration of landfill and waste management operations, studies, reviews of other models, as well as a proposed time frame, goals and associated action plan which could dovetail with Glasgow City Council’s Open Space Action Plan.

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From the outset of the proposed ecological equation, the intended vision and framework could be represented clearly and accessed as an open source.

Overall the action plan could serve as the basis for further review, discussion and decision-making, enabling Grey to Green to enhance on-going community engagement and ownership, resulting in a re-connected spirit of citizenship and empowerment.

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Available at http://e-architect.co.uk/madrid/madrid-riolandscape (Accessed 28 February 2015)

Sprawl and Health (no date). Available at http://www. newurbanism.org/newurbanism/sprawlhealth.html (Accessed 4 January 2015)

McArthur J. (1778). Plan of the City of Glasgow, Gorbells and Caltoun. Available at www.gla.ac.uk/media/media_107125_ en.jpg (Accessed 2 March 2015)

Suau, C, Petruskeviciute, L and Naruseviciute, P (2014), PechaKucha 21: Pretty Vacant. Presentation as part of the Architecture and Design Scotland Pecha Kucha event 11/09/14 produced by Taktal at The Whisky Bond. Available at https://vimeo.com/107172298 (Accessed 2 December 2014)

Montgomery, C (2013). ‘The secrets of the world’s happiest cities’. The Guardian, 1 November 2013 online. Available at www.theguardian.com/society/2013/nov/01/secrets-worldshappiest-cities-commute-property-prices (Accessed 23 November 2014) Morphosis (2011). Manzares Park River Development. Available at http://morphopedia.com/projects/manzanares-river-parkdevelopment (Accessed 10 February 2015)

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Universiteit Leiden, Faculty of Science (2014). Hortus botanicus Leiden. Available at http://hortus.leidenuniv.nl/index. php?/english/newsitem/hortus_botanicus_leiden/ (Accessed 28 February 2015) Urban Adventures, Exploration & Photography. Available at http://urbanglasgow.co.uk/archive/glasgow-trainstations__o_t__t_1025.html (Accessed 4 March 2015)

Young, M. (2009). From Threatened Demolition to Public Park: Tracking The High Line’s Evolution at Parks (Part I) Available at http://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/the-high-line/ dailyplant/21981 (Accessed 14 February 2015)

NYU Stern Urbanisation Project (2014) Paris [Video]. Available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_ embedded&v=9ieL0A_icK0 (Accessed 15 October 2014)

VIDEOS

NYU Stern Urbanisation Project (2014) London [Video]. Available at https://www.youtube.com/ playlist?list=PLzYZm159uzQNc7H5UCCXHx4c4TKdCeaNt (Accessed 15 October 2014)

Burden, A, Dobbs, R, Romer, P and Tonkiss, F (2013). ‘Urban Expansion’. [Video] City Lab: Urban Solutions for Global Challenges Conference. New York University, New York, 10 July 2013. Available at http://fora.tv/2013/10/07/urban_ expansion. (Accessed 24 September 2014) Duany, A (2014). ‘Lean Urbanism: An Introduction’. [Video] Project for Lean Urbanism. 3 April 2014. Available at https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwpi85QuGRc (Accessed 1 October 2014) Larson, K. (2012). Brilliant designs to fit more people into every city. [Video]. Filmed June 2012. Available at http://www.ted.com/talks/kent_larson_brilliant_designs_to_fit_ more_people_in_every_city#t-250972 (Accessed 8 October 2014) NYU Stern Urbanisation Project (2014). Los Angeles [Video].

Available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_ embedded&v=1u7H1helosI (Accessed 15 October 2014) NYU Stern Urbanisation Project (2014) Sao Paolo [Video].

Available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_ embedded&v=2WGPvWPpey8 (Accessed 15 October 2014)

Pilloton, E (2010). Teaching design for change [Video] Filmed July 2010. Available at http://www.ted.com/talks/emily_pilloton_teaching_design_for_ change#t-708565 (Accessed 22 October 2014) Angel, S (no date). ‘Making room for a planet of cities’. [Video] NYU Stern Urbanisation Project - Urban Lecture Series.

Available at http://urbanizationproject.org/blog/un-habitat-making-roomfor-a-planet-of-cities#.U0RaHOBMZHM (Accessed 29 October 2014) Speck, J (2012). The Walkable City [Video]. Filmed September 2012. Available at http://www.ted.com/talks/jeff_speck_the_walkable_city (Accessed 5 November 2014) Parvin, A (2013). Architecture for the People by the People.

[Video]. Filmed February 2013. Available at http://www.ted.com/talks/alastair_parvin_architecture_for_the_ people_by_the_people (Accessed 12 November 2014)

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Penalosa, E (2013). Why buses represent democracy in action [Video] Filmed September 2013. Available at http://www.ted.com/talks/enrique_penalosa_why_buses_ represent_democracy_in_action (Accessed 19 November 2014) Kunstler, J H (2014). The ghastly tragedy of the suburbs [Video] Filmed February 2004. Available at http://www.ted.com/talks/james_howard_kunstler_dissects_ suburbia (Accessed 26 November 2014) Sadik-Kahn, J (2013). New York’s Streets? Not so mean anymore [Video] Filmed September 2013. Available at http://www.ted.com/talks/janette_sadik_khan_new_york_s_ streets_not_so_mean_any_more (Accessed 3 December 2014) Burden, A (2014). What make public spaces work? [Video] Available at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7fRIGphgtk (Accessed 10 December 2014) West, G (2011). The surprising math of cities and corporations [Video] Filmed July 2011. Available at http://www.ted.com/talks/geoffrey_west_the_surprising_math_ of_cities_and_corporations (Accessed 17 December 2014)

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Barbour, G (2014). ‘Glasgow Housing Association - Urban regeneration in Glasgow through plot-based development: The Botany, Maryhill.’ Plot Based Urbanism Summit, University of Strathclyde, 27 October 2014.

Wolfe, C.R. (2014). ‘Recalibrating the plot for mixed-use buildings’. Plot Based Urbanism Summit, University of Strathclyde, 27 October 2014.

Campbell, K (2014). ‘Smart Urbanism’. Plot Based Urbanism Summit, University of Strathclyde, 27 October 2014.

Fundaró, S (2014). ‘Plot-based urbanism: Experiences in developing countries and UN-Habitat’s latest activities’ Plot Based Urbanism Summit, University of Strathclyde, 27 October 2014.

Greaves, M (2014). ‘Planning, The Planning System and Design’. Guest Lecture by Mark Greaves, University of Strathclyde, 12 November 2014.

Lawlor, D (2014). ‘Grow your own Garden City plot-by-plot’.

Plot Based Urbanism Summit, University of Strathclyde, 27 October 2014.

LECTURES

Romice, O (2014). Qualities of places. [Lecture to Urban Design 1], University of Strathclyde, 8 October 2014.

Adam, R (2014). ‘Wellesley: Aldershot Urban Extension’. Guest Lecture by Professor Robert Adam, University of Strathclyde, 5 November 2014.

Romice, O (2014). The quality of place - What shapes cities?

[Lecture to Urban Design 1], University of Strathclyde, 22 October 2014.

Romice, O (2014). How did we get here? [Lecture to Urban Design 1], University of Strathclyde, 26 November 2014.

David Rudlin, D (2014). ‘Urbanism Environment and Design’.

Plot Based Urbanism Summit, University of Strathclyde, 27 October 2014.

Tarbatt, J (2014). ‘The Popular Home Initiative using plotbased approaches.’ Plot Based Urbanism Summit, University of Strathclyde, 27 October 2014.

Thwaites, K (2014). ‘University of Sheffield - Control and Transitional Edges: Towards a socio-spatial morphology for plot-based urbanism’. Plot Based Urbanism Summit, University of Strathclyde, 27 October 2014.

Duke Street Station, September 2014.

Glasgow Green Line, September 2014.

Green 2014: The Environmental Legacy of the XX Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, October 2014.

Kelvinbridge Station, November 2014.

Partick Central Station, October 2014.

Stobcross Station, December 2014.

Wolfe, C R (2014). ‘Urban Diaries and Decoding Places’.

Urbanism without Effort Workshop, University of Strathclyde, 29 October 2014.

VISITS Botanic Gardens Railline, various visits September to October 2014.

Central Station Original Entrance, February 2015.

Clyde Riverside Locations: Broomielaw to Finnieston; Glasgow Green; The Gorbals; The Quay, various visiits from September 2014 to February 2015.

Clydeside Expressway Arches, various visits from Sept 2014 to January 2015.

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University of Strathclyde Department of Architecture BSc Honours Architectural Studies

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Dissertation From Grey to Green: An Ecological Equation Rachael C. Smith rachael.c.smith@strath.ac.uk Registration Number : 201040484 Dissertation supervisor : Cristian Suau March 2015