Derelict Lanarkshire site transformed into village allotments

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Everything’s coming up roses for residents of an Airdrie village following the transformation of a long-vacant site at the heart of their home area.New allotments and a community garden have been created on a derelict former mining area at Hillrigg in Wattston which has lain empty for more than three decades.It includes a communal greenspace plus orchard and wildflower areas, and has now been officially handed over to members of the new Hillrigg allotment association who will look after the new site.The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download now.

Get all the news from your area – as well as features, entertainment, sport and the latest on Lanarkshire’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – straight to your fingertips, 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories, and allows you to customise your page to the sections that matter most to you.Head to the App Store and never miss a beat in Lanarkshire - iOS - Android Wattston’s new allotments were created after a public consultation in November 2019 to allow residents to decide on the best option for their community space, with work starting on site 11 months ago.It was restored thanks to support from the Scottish Government’s vacant and derelict land fund, which has also allowed North Lanarkshire Council to develop similar allotments at Viewpark and Mossend.Enterprise convener Allan Graham said of Hillrigg: “This site was part of the mining works in this area and has been empty since 1988 so it’s wonderful to see it given a new life for everyone in the village to enjoy – we’re delighted to hand over the site to the allotment association and wish them every success.”Allotments committee member Margaret O’Byrne Linden said: “All