Document 967

GOW Newsletter Apr 2005

Author(s): John Roberts

Copyright holder(s): John Roberts

GOW Triangle.
Gibson Street, Otago Street,
Westbank Quadrant,
Glasgow G12

April


A Step Into The future


In last month's newsletter we showed you what one corner of the backcourt could look like (between No.1 and No.3 Westbank Quadrant)

This month you can see a similar proposal for the corner of Otago and Gibson Street, this is the bin area behind the large planter. It is proposed levelling the corner area achieving a free flowing space behind the large angled planter. This provides easier access. The retention of the large planter provides improved circulation and an even level makes the corner more attractive and useful.

It is the intention that the material we demolish can be reused within the salvaged chain link fence fabric that holds the Gabion Basket together. We need to make sure the rocks in the wire cages are packed in as tightly as possible before we sow the cages shut with hefty wire. This should be tightened up as much as possible. Then back filled and let sit for a few weeks before we build on top. It will be difficult to get a nice level foundation so we should consider pouring a concrete bond beam around the top just to level everything out. For those of you who missed the plans for the area between No1. and No.3 Westbank Quadrant last month I have provided the pictures again below.

[NOTE: pictures inserted here in original]

I look forward to receiving feedback and welcome further discussions between residents regarding alterations to the backcourt.

Karl [CENSORED: surname] Phone [CENSORED: phonenumber] Email [CENSORED: emailaddress]

Backcourt Clean Up on Sunday 3rd of April 2.00pm - 4.00pm
GOW Meeting in Offshore on Monday 4th April at 6.30pm.


Washhouse Museum

We are delighted to report that we have received a grant from "Awards for All" to do some research into the possibility of a Washhouse Virtual Museum for the washhouse in the basement of 3 Westbank Quadrant and have employed a Development Manager to progress this piece of work. Starting from 4 April, Paul Barton will be employed to carry out this work. I know Paul will be keen to recruit some volunteers to help him with this work.


Problematic in Gibson Street

Yes, its [CENSORED: companyname] who still have not fixed the chimney in the backcourt after the Christmas storms. The local council have also been round to tell them that this is a health and safety issue and it must be fixed immediately. We will wait and see what happens next. At least they have had the old damaged one removed from the court.

Also I have to report that nothing has happened about the broken back door to the cellars on No.29 Gibson Street. It is still lying open and evidence of rough sleepers has been found once again. It is feared that this could be a potential fire hazard.

We would ask the residents of these flats to bring this to the attention of their landlords.


Recycling update

I am pleased to report that the recycling initiative is going well. Some people may still not be using the bins to their full advantage but we are regularly monitoring the back court in an effort to identify those who need a little more info!

Can I remind everyone that if they leave their bulk items between No. 5 and No. 7 on Monday night, the council will remove it on Tuesday. Please don't just dump them there during the week. If you have particularly large bulky items then please phone the council and they will arrange a day to collect it from you.


New business in Gibson Street

We have heard that the old Clydesdale Bank is possibly going to re open as a upmarket cafe / restaurant The premises have been taken over by a developer who plans to remodel the shop and then either run it himself or lease it out to a new owner. Hopefully this will help tidy up this side of Gibson Street as it has looked rather run down over the past few months. More definite news to follow.


STOP PRESS!!!
The West End Festival comes to Gibson St.

That's right, GOW has been given the go ahead to join in the West End Festival this year. Council permission will be given to close Gibson St. from 12 noon until 6.00pm on Sunday 26th June. The traffic free area will be from the Primary Pub at the roundabout, Woodlands Road along to Otago junction.

The West End Festival Director, Michael Dale, has met with some local residents and businesses and has given the go ahead. This event will mark the finale of this year's festival. There will be some small fairground attractions and stalls on the bridge area. This will create a carnival atmosphere and it is anticipated that some of the local cafes and restaurants will be putting extra tables and chairs out on the pavements to take advantage of the new visitors to the area. It is also hoped that there will be an exhibition of paintings on the railings along Westbank Quadrant where you will have the chance to snap up work of a local artist.

Also the GOW are considering the possibility of putting on some activities in the backcourt. Things are still in the early stages of planning and information will be distributed when we find out more. Please put the date into your diary now and tell all your friends about it. Perhaps you will want to become involved and lend a hand.

If so please contact Elinor on [CENSORED: phonenumber]

And watch this space!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Information about Document 967

GOW Newsletter Apr 2005