Marking the opening of green space in heart of Glasgow

Robertson Civil Engineering has celebrated the official opening of one of its biggest ever projects at Cuningar Loop in Glasgow.

Glasgow's new Cuningar Woodland Park was officially opened by transport minister Humza Yousaf on August 27, with members of the public making use of the urban outdoor space since earlier this summer.

Robertson Civil Engineering developed the Woodland Park on behalf of the Forest Enterprise Scotland in a project procured through Scape Group, the public sector procurement specialist National Major Works framework, superseded by Major Works – Scotland a part of the (Scape) National Construction framework.

In a separate project for Clyde Gateway, Robertson was also responsible for the construction of a purpose-built bridge which connects the Woodland Park to the former Commonwealth Games' athletes' village. That work was won through a competitive tendering process.

A great deal of hard work went into this project and I'm incredibly proud of the result. While the public have already been thoroughly enjoying the park, the official opening ceremony was a special moment for myself and the team at Robertson Civil Engineering – Tony Fry, managing director of Robertson Civil Engineering

"This particular site posed a number of challenges, as it had previously been used as a quarry, illegal mine and for landfill. But all the efforts taken have been worth it, and the local people now have an outdoor space to be truly proud of. I'm sure it will become a cherished landmark – and thanks to the bridge, people will be able to access the park with ease."

The former abandoned landfill site on the banks of River Clyde is now an active "woodland retreat" and is expected to welcome 120,000 visitors this year.

Cuningar Loop Woodland Park is 15 hectares and boasts biking and walking loops, adventure play areas and Scotland's first outdoor bouldering facilities. The park creates a vibrant accessible green space for the communities in Dalmarnock and Rutherglen to enjoy.

The £9.3 million Commonwealth Games Legacy project has been managed by Forest Enterprise Scotland and Clyde Gateway, with the support of many partners.

Many years ago, the site was used for quarrying and mining before turning into a landfill site for rubble from the Gorbals demolition. To help green up the area, over 15,000 trees and shrubs have been planted.

Stuart Chalmers, added: "We're really pleased that Cuningar Loop has been such a big hit with local people. The emphasis has always been to make the park a welcoming and active place for all to visit.forest district manager with Forest Enterprise Scotland

"A key ingredient to this success has been working with community groups and partner organisations – something which we will build on for the future."

Artists in residence Rob Mullholland and James Winnet helped bring the woodland park to life with sculptures and unique artwork.

Ian Manson, chief executive of Clyde Gateway, said: "For Clyde Gateway, this is regeneration. The quality and variety of facilities in the park are proving to be amazingly popular with local residents and those from further afield, with the visitor numbers up there with some of the best-known attractions in and around the city."

Mark Robinson, Scape Group chief executive, added: "It is great to see such fantastic collaboration between Robertson, Clyde Gateway and Forest Enterprise Scotland to deliver new outdoor facilities for the local community.

"By using the Scape National Major Works framework, the local council ensured the project was not only delivered in the most cost-effective way, but also contributed to the local economy by using local suppliers and providing employment opportunities for local people."

Cuningar Loop Woodland Park forms a key part of the wider economic regeneration of the Glasgow and South Lanarkshire area. It is one of 14 Commonwealth Woodlands around Glasgow.

The park's development is also part of the Scottish Government's Central Scotland Green Network (CSGN) project which is boosting economic regeneration and making the central belt a more attractive place to live in, do business and visit.