CAMPAIGNERS trying to stop flats being built on what they claim is the last untouched plot of land in the West End are being evicted.

CAMPAIGNERS trying to stop flats being built on what they claim is the last untouched plot of land in the West End are being evicted.

Residents have created an orchard, planted wild flowers and set up allotments at the site on Clouston Street near Queen Margaret Drive since it was revealed last year it was set to be sold for development.

But Glasgow City Council has now given them 14 days to leave the site, which campaigners have christened North Kelvin Meadow, and remove all their possessions.

Douglas Peacock, 43, chairman of the North Kelvinside Green Space Community Initiative, said: "The land was vacant for 25-plus years and then the local community got together and started restoring it by cleaning up the litter, planting flowers, growing vegetables, and putting a door on a disused shed to stop it being used as a drinking and drugs den, as it had before.

"Instead of applauding this initiative, the council has given us a 14-day eviction notice. They say it's from a health and safety and legal point of view. That's not just wrong, it's cruel. The council should accept our invitation to sit down and work out what's best for this land. The last thing we want is litigation. "

Glasgow City Council agreed to sell the site to developers New City Vision Ltd last year.

Its plans to build 115 flats and houses on the plot which was once football pitches could be worth up to £10million.

A petition to save the site has more than 500 signatures including those of Glasgow writers Alasdair Gray, Zoe Strachan and Louise Welsh. Politicians are also backing the campaign.

Bob Doris MSP said: "While there may be disagreement about the eventual future of the playing fields, it is clear that the campaign is attempting to play a positive role within the community.

"I hope health and safety concerns from the council can be resolved. If an understanding can be reached, even if only in the short term, it would be a positive step."

It is understood the council could be looking at alternative sites for allotments in the area. In addition, a small park would be included in any development.

A council spokesman said: "The eviction notice has been served as the people using the land have no authority to do so in this fashion."