New community facility for Shawlands Crescent

Published: Tuesday 4 October 2022

This image shows Councillor Davie McLachlan at the opening of a new community facility at Shawlands Crescent Gypsy/Traveller site in Larkhall

A fantastic new community facility has opened at the council’s Gypsy/Traveller site in Larkhall.

Working together with the residents, a masterplan was developed to upgrade the standard of facilities and the general environment at Shawlands Crescent and is being progressed in three phases.

Replacing the site’s community facility was part of the first phase of the masterplan. The new facility, designed in consultation with residents, includes the installation of Wi-Fi and has a range of furniture and equipment.

A Shawlands Crescent Resident said: “It’s been an amazing journey co-developing this facility. We have broken down so many barriers faced by our community.

“Most importantly we have built everlasting relationships with South Lanarkshire Council and other partners.

“Change happens when people are valued and respected and the council has done this, undoubtedly changing the lives of residents.

“This facility offers so much more for all residents to share, with outcomes for everyone on site outstanding and life changing.”

Chair of the council’s Housing and Technical Resources Committee, Councillor Davie McLachlan, said: “I was delighted to see so many people from across different organisations and services come together, alongside many of our residents who call Shawlands Crescent their home.

“Co-designed with residents, this new facility provides a flexible, accessible meeting and event space.

“It also provides a range of housing, health and education services on site for residents to access.

“This project is an integral part of the wider vision and plans for South Lanarkshire’s two Gypsy/Traveller sites.”