A TOP crime expert has criticised Scotland's largest local authority after residents were evicted from a community-run project on land it wants to sell on to a property developer.
A TOP crime expert has criticised Scotland's largest local authority after residents were evicted from a community-run project on land it wants to sell on to a property developer.
Glasgow City Council posted a 14-day notice of removal on the North Kelvin Meadow, a former drugs blackspot which is now used for allotments and fruit trees.
The council claims that its plan for new housing is supported by the majority of residents and will provide much-needed family homes for the area.
However, the scheme has attracted wide-spread criticism from politicians and councillors and now Dr Laura Piacentini, a reader in criminology at Strathclyde University, has stepped into the row.
Dr Piacentini believes green spaces such as the Meadow encourage the public to take pride in their surroundings and are a vital weapon in the battle against crime.
She said: "I see huge crime-reduction benefits from supporting efforts such as the North Kelvin Meadow.
"Through green spaces such as the Meadow, individuals can connect with, and support and care for, the environment rather than violating and damaging their surroundings.
"There is a massive research body which demonstrates that when a council/government body takes the bold initiative to step back, and engages with communities, then this gives promise of them functioning in meaningful, inclusive and dynamic ways.
"It would be folly to embark on an eviction."
Residents have installed allotments, a fruit garden and composting facilities, and have cleaned up and secured a shed previously used as a drugs den.
MSPs Bob Doris and Robert Brown have also leant their support to the campaign to save the land for community use.
Mr Brown has urged the council to put its plans on hold pending further talks with residents.
He said: "The North Kelvin Meadow is a unique asset for local people.
"The extensive work already done by the campaign group to plant fruit bushes and organise allotment locations shows what can be done with a bit of imagination.
"I am vastly disappointed that the council is taking what appears to be a rather hard-line approach, with scant regard for the wishes and needs of local people."
A spokesman for Glasgow City Council said: "This proposal would provide family homes, a park and also fund new playing facilities.
"It is also the one that attracted most support in the community, with those attending the consultation event clearly identifying it as their preferred design."
