Clydeside projects can aid health
SOURCE: THE HERALD, NOVEMBER 2005
Millions of pounds being spent on commercial and residential property development along the banks of the River Clyde could hold the key to tackling Glasgow's appalling health record. That's the belief of Elspeth Carson, head of commercial property at Scottish law firm Semple Fraser, who argues that changing people's lifestyles is essential to their survival.
"Glasgow is a proud exponent of the fried pizza, Mars bar, no exercise all week and 13-pints-on-a-Friday-night culture which has seen Scotland regularly dubbed the sick man of Europe,” she says.
"The seriousness of the situation was confirmed last year when the Office of National Statistics reported that Glasgow was the only area in Britain where male life expectancy fell below 70".
And just how is property development going to help?
"Millions have been spent decontaminating former industrial land on either side of the Clyde and bringing this back into use for all to enjoy," says Carson. "Careful consideration has been paid to ensuring that these developments are accessible for the many, not just the few who can afford a riverside apartment."
"Most of the developments incorporate parks and open spaces, opening up access to the river with the aim of encouraging people out of their houses and down to the waterfront. A good example of this is Glasgow Harbour, where only 40% of the development is being built on, the rest being set aside for walkways and parkland."
"Bridges, riverside walkways and cycle paths complement the improved leisure facilities, from football and rowing facilities at Glasgow Green to the indoor ski slope being built at Braehead. All of these will contribute to what we hope will be a healthier lifestyle for Glaswegians."
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: ELSPETH CARSON
Complete the details below to send a link to this page to a friend.