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Live project

Cadder Woods

Transforming a derelict site into an accessible, nature-rich oasis on the outskirts of Glasgow.

Overview

Transforming Cadder Woods

This multi-phase, partnership project in north Glasgow has involved creating new pathways, installing signage and undertaking sensitive forestry works.  

Community consultation identified improved safety, reduced litter and accessibility as priorities. The site was overgrown, with no clear entrances or sight lines. Classified as derelict, it was scarred by burnt out cars and litter. 

Working with local community members, Green Action Trust (GAT) developed a proposal and secured funding totalling more than £1 million.  

We commissioned site investigations and carried out stakeholder engagement. Our design team then worked alongside consultants to develop technical designs for all the built aspects of the project proposal, including the play area, canal tow path ramp and entrance features. 

Once the final designs had been approved by stakeholders, we procured and managed the contractor to deliver the project. 

We want to thank all the funders and partners involved in delivering this project. Read on to find out more about how we achieved this, the partners and funding involved and for a timeline of the works.

Funding secured: £1,010,886.71

Construction company laying paths

Our impact

Now works have been completed:

  • An inclusive path network of new trails and cleared paths has improved access and safety – people now have access to the nature that was already on their doorstep, including sparrowhawks. 
  • Forestry works have created better lines of site through the woods – helping to formalise desire lines and improving safety as well as increasing biodiversity. 
  • Woodland Management works have increased light to the woodland floor, developing the understory and providing a better mosaic of habitat for wildlife. 
  • New wayfinding signage and fencing has created clear entry and exit points and clear navigation. Interpretation boards explain the history and local context. 
  • A new ramp connecting the site to the National Cycle Route along the Forth & Clyde Canal has created active travel routes to the city centre, and to a wealth of destinations and services in the north of the city including to Hamiltonhill Clay Pits Local Nature Reserve and to Maryhill via the new Stockingfield Junction bridge. 
  • The site is now part of the Glasgow City Region Green Network. 
  • A new path from the school to the woods and a new learning circle near the school allows schools and other groups to run lessons and activities in nature.

Aims & objectives

environmental outcomes

The project aims to deliver multiple outcomes, across these key areas:

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Vacant & Derelict Land

Addressing industrial past, rubbish dumping and unmanaged scrubland to improve the safety, usability and attractiveness of the woodland..

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Greenspace Access

Creating new and improved path networks and clear lines of site, and installing fencing and wayfinding signage.

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Green Active Travel

Connecting local residents to existing active travel routes along the canal and into the city.

“It’s about finding the things that were already special about the site and celebrating these. 

Rachel Smith 

Glasgow City Council

Background

Client: Glasgow City Council

Cadder Woods is owned by Glasgow City Council. They had identified the site as a potential Local Nature Conservation Site and earmarked it for Glasgow City Region (GCR) Green Network.  

In 2022, Glasgow City Council asked us to review Cadder Woods management plans and develop the woods as a community resource.  

The 15.5 hectare site is made up of planted trees, scrub woodland, regenerating trees and grassland. It sits between the Forth & Clyde Canal and the community of Cadder on the north edge of Glasgow. The site had formally been classed as derelict due to its industrial past. A marshy loch was partially covered with waste from nearby iron works, and then lost altogether due to the demand for space for the expanding community. 

The woods became overgrown and a location for fly tipping and other anti-social behaviour.  

Across three distinct phases of the project, GAT has secured funding from the Vacant and Derelict Land Fund, the Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme, Paths For All Ian Findlay Path Fund, and Sustrans Place’s for Everyone Fund.    

About us

Delivering the CSGN

This short video, filmed for the Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) highlights the value of partnership working.

Lambhill Stables was instrumental in engaging the community – in the planning process and in using and maintaining the finished site. Glasgow City Council’s , Neighbourhoods, Regeneration and Sustainability team were the client and responsible for decision making and fundraising support.   

Together, we are overcoming environmental inequality in Cadder by connecting people to greenspace where it is needed most.