PLANS to build a new hospice in a city park have taken a major step forward.
Glasgow councillors have agreed in principle that a replacement Prince and Princess of Wales hospice can be constructed in Bellahouston Park.
A detailed report will now be drawn up on the proposal and people living in the area will be widely consulted.
The hospice, which provides care for people with terminal illnesses – mainly cancer – is currently based in Glasgow's Carlton Place.
Bosses say it is no longer big enough to meet the demand and there is no room to expand.
The new £15million hospice, which will be built on a council depot in the park, will provide care for young people aged between 18 and 25.
Liz Cameron, the city council's spokesman for development and regeneration, said there is a gap in the provision of care for young people with terminal illness.
Hospice bosses believe they would benefit from being cared for in their own age group rather than with children or adults.
Ms Cameron said: "This hospice is very special to the city. It is our hospice because it was given by the city to the Prince and Princess of Wales.
"The hospice is a huge success because there are 1000 referrals each year but they need to expand. There is no special service for young people between the ages of 18 and 25.
"It is thought the site in Bellahouston Park would be an extremely suitable and appropriate environment for hospice patients.
"It would be wonderful if they could be in a place that is surrounded by greenery.
"It would be my wish that a full public consultation is held and I hope to go out and speak to community councils."
Ms Cameron said a detailed report, which will be ready in the New Year, will address the concerns of some residents about increased traffic.
The only member of the executive committee who objected to the plan was Green councillor Martha Wardrop.
She said: "I have every respect for the hospice but don't accept this park should be used for a new building project."
Ms Wardrop said instead of building the hospice in Bellahouston, it should instead be built on a brownfield site elsewhere in the city.
vivienne.nicoll@ eveningtimes.co.uk
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