Posted by: tony t, southside on 11:59am Wed 16 Jan 08
having stayed in these flats for 15 years.they were the best years of my life and many of the people that i got to know during my time in alcatraz.i will make it my point to visit the exhibition.not many people would agree with the good councillor
having stayed in these flats for 15 years.they were the best years of my life and many of the people that i got to know during my time in alcatraz.i will make it my point to visit the exhibition.not many people would agree with the good councillor
Posted by: Biffo the bear, beano town on 12:21pm Wed 16 Jan 08
Jimmy Nutter sorry Mutter is only p.i.s.s.ed of that he didnt get recognition for his 23 yrs service though im sure he got a tidy pension & golden handshake when he retired from the gravy train
Jimmy Nutter sorry Mutter is only p.i.s.s.ed of that he didnt get recognition for his 23 yrs service though im sure he got a tidy pension & golden handshake when he retired from the gravy train
Posted by: Sydney Meriwether, Glasgow on 12:28pm Wed 16 Jan 08
The ex-councillor is talking absolute nonsense: Basil's 'Hutchie C' complex was as much a victim of the rampant social problems which the councillor and his buddies wantonly failed to cure, as it was inappropriate design. Either way Glasgow Corporation (a precursor of Glasgow City Council) is fully to blame: [bold]they[/bold] created the Hutchesontown/Gorbal
s Comprehensive Development Area; [bold]they[/bold] commissioned Sir Basil; and [bold]they[/bold] failed to maintain the condition of the dwellings after construction.
Even in relative terms in the Gorbals development area, [bold]Spence's 'Hutchie C' was no where near as bad as the deplorable 'Hutchie E' scheme[/bold]. The latter were constructed using the highly unsuitable 'Tracoba' system, which resulted in endemic dampness and early demolition, but was chosen because it "offered the prospect of [bold]increased profitability for private contractors[/bold]"... [italic]ring any bells anyone[/italic]... Glasgow Tower, Glasgow Harbour flats, Squinty bridge...?
The ex-councillor is talking absolute nonsense: Basil's 'Hutchie C' complex was as much a victim of the rampant social problems which the councillor and his buddies wantonly failed to cure, as it was inappropriate design. Either way Glasgow Corporation (a precursor of Glasgow City Council) is fully to blame:
they created the Hutchesontown/Gorbal
s Comprehensive Development Area;
they commissioned Sir Basil; and
they failed to maintain the condition of the dwellings after construction.
Even in relative terms in the Gorbals development area,
Spence's 'Hutchie C' was no where near as bad as the deplorable 'Hutchie E' scheme. The latter were constructed using the highly unsuitable 'Tracoba' system, which resulted in endemic dampness and early demolition, but was chosen because it "offered the prospect of
increased profitability for private contractors"...
ring any bells anyone... Glasgow Tower, Glasgow Harbour flats, Squinty bridge...?
Posted by: Heather, Glasgow on 12:33pm Wed 16 Jan 08
So it was all the architect's fault! It wasnae me, a big boy did it and got a tribute exhibition!
Classic public sector behavior.
So it was all the architect's fault! It wasnae me, a big boy did it and got a tribute exhibition!
Classic public sector behavior.
Posted by: jrb, Glasgow on 1:11pm Wed 16 Jan 08
[quote][bold]Sydney Meriwether[/bold] wrote:
The ex-councillor is talking absolute nonsense: Basil's 'Hutchie C' complex was as much a victim of the rampant social problems which the councillor and his buddies wantonly failed to cure, as it was inappropriate design. Either way Glasgow Corporation (a precursor of Glasgow City Council) is fully to blame: [bold]they[/bold] created the Hutchesontown/Gorbal s Comprehensive Development Area; [bold]they[/bold] commissioned Sir Basil; and [bold]they[/bold] failed to maintain the condition of the dwellings after construction. Even in relative terms in the Gorbals development area, [bold]Spence's 'Hutchie C' was no where near as bad as the deplorable 'Hutchie E' scheme[/bold]. The latter were constructed using the highly unsuitable 'Tracoba' system, which resulted in endemic dampness and early demolition, but was chosen because it "offered the prospect of [bold]increased profitability for private contractors[/bold]"... [italic]ring any bells anyone[/italic]... Glasgow Tower, Glasgow Harbour flats, Squinty bridge...?[/quote] Agree with all you said, only to add ex- councillor's Mutter's description of the flats as"A Big grey block that was an eyesore"I can think of some recent builds in glasgow,which match this description,do we have to wait 20 odds years before the present group of councillors, who have giving their support and backing for such monstrosities come out and say
Sorry we got it wrong.....At the time of building hutchie "c" represented a chance for locals who had lived in old ,and run down tenement buildings,[ which incidentally were allowed to deteriorate by a combination of private landlords,and the old Glasgow corporation,]to have the chance of a decent housing, and as you point out failure to maintain the development led to the deterioration of what seemed ideal social housing...
Sydney Meriwether wrote:
The ex-councillor is talking absolute nonsense: Basil's 'Hutchie C' complex was as much a victim of the rampant social problems which the councillor and his buddies wantonly failed to cure, as it was inappropriate design. Either way Glasgow Corporation (a precursor of Glasgow City Council) is fully to blame: they created the Hutchesontown/Gorbal s Comprehensive Development Area; they commissioned Sir Basil; and they failed to maintain the condition of the dwellings after construction. Even in relative terms in the Gorbals development area, Spence's 'Hutchie C' was no where near as bad as the deplorable 'Hutchie E' scheme. The latter were constructed using the highly unsuitable 'Tracoba' system, which resulted in endemic dampness and early demolition, but was chosen because it "offered the prospect of increased profitability for private contractors"... ring any bells anyone... Glasgow Tower, Glasgow Harbour flats, Squinty bridge...?
Agree with all you said, only to add ex- councillor's Mutter's description of the flats as"A Big grey block that was an eyesore"I can think of some recent builds in glasgow,which match this description,do we have to wait 20 odds years before the present group of councillors, who have giving their support and backing for such monstrosities come out and say
Sorry we got it wrong.....At the time of building hutchie "c" represented a chance for locals who had lived in old ,and run down tenement buildings,to have the chance of a decent housing, and as you point out failure to maintain the development led to the deterioration of what seemed ideal social housing...
Posted by: The Missing City, Glasgow on 1:35pm Wed 16 Jan 08
I saw this creepy space age structure in 1989 while I was in my final year at school in nearby Wolseley Street.
Having a friend who lived in the building, it was riddled with junkies and prostitutes and I bet it was quite an experience for anybody who lived there.
Of course back in the late 60's all was well, people still had jobs, there was some kind of optimism about the place, but by 1975, the place was about to go to the dogs.
And that's exactly what happened.
People died as a result of this structure and many others which existed, even an old womnan died when the block was being blown up back in 1993, so I can't understand why this architect of destruction has been given an award.
Although there was bad property in the Gorbals mainly due to greedy private landlords, the fact of the matter is that not all properties in the Gorbals was slums. Even though some structures were poor in sanitation and some had structural defects due to old 18th century mine workings or bomb damage due to the war and some which had no roofs., these could have been wiped out for a complete rebuild and at the same time, preserving the community and the area as a whole.
There was also this overspill thing which has now underpopulated Glasgow by at least 400,000 people and a whole new set of problems have arisen since this occured.
Well done to all responsible!
An award for being a contributor to Social destruction - yes, not bad at all!
I saw this creepy space age structure in 1989 while I was in my final year at school in nearby Wolseley Street.
Having a friend who lived in the building, it was riddled with junkies and prostitutes and I bet it was quite an experience for anybody who lived there.
Of course back in the late 60's all was well, people still had jobs, there was some kind of optimism about the place, but by 1975, the place was about to go to the dogs.
And that's exactly what happened.
People died as a result of this structure and many others which existed, even an old womnan died when the block was being blown up back in 1993, so I can't understand why this architect of destruction has been given an award.
Although there was bad property in the Gorbals mainly due to greedy private landlords, the fact of the matter is that not all properties in the Gorbals was slums. Even though some structures were poor in sanitation and some had structural defects due to old 18th century mine workings or bomb damage due to the war and some which had no roofs., these could have been wiped out for a complete rebuild and at the same time, preserving the community and the area as a whole.
There was also this overspill thing which has now underpopulated Glasgow by at least 400,000 people and a whole new set of problems have arisen since this occured.
Well done to all responsible!
An award for being a contributor to Social destruction - yes, not bad at all!
Posted by: Big Al, Glasgow on 2:31pm Wed 16 Jan 08
I reckon that there should be an exhibition on all building crimes against Glasgow that have been committed since the 60's (public and private). Yes, it was the Glasgow Corporation that commissioned these buildings - who were responsible for these decisions. But, it was also Basil that designed the building. (He may have been under certain restrictions, however, if an architect/developer is willing to put his name to it, then they should take a bit of pride their work.)
Bringing up to the current day, I think there are far too many examples of poor building design that are being accepted by nameless councilors. Take Springfield Quay (ETAP hotel/casino) - both the council and the architect should hang their heads in shame if they were involved in this project - its a building crime against our city, that is unfortunately going to stick around for the next 40 odd years. There are so so many other examples, however, councillors/develope
rs/architects/builde
rs continue to put up sh*te, knowing that they can easily slip away with their nice tidy profit, once the building is up.
I reckon that there should be an exhibition on all building crimes against Glasgow that have been committed since the 60's (public and private). Yes, it was the Glasgow Corporation that commissioned these buildings - who were responsible for these decisions. But, it was also Basil that designed the building. (He may have been under certain restrictions, however, if an architect/developer is willing to put his name to it, then they should take a bit of pride their work.)
Bringing up to the current day, I think there are far too many examples of poor building design that are being accepted by nameless councilors. Take Springfield Quay (ETAP hotel/casino) - both the council and the architect should hang their heads in shame if they were involved in this project - its a building crime against our city, that is unfortunately going to stick around for the next 40 odd years. There are so so many other examples, however, councillors/develope
rs/architects/builde
rs continue to put up sh*te, knowing that they can easily slip away with their nice tidy profit, once the building is up.
Posted by: Murraymint, Kilbarchan on 3:19pm Wed 16 Jan 08
[quote][bold]Big Al[/bold] wrote:
I reckon that there should be an exhibition on all building crimes against Glasgow that have been committed since the 60's (public and private). Yes, it was the Glasgow Corporation that commissioned these buildings - who were responsible for these decisions. But, it was also Basil that designed the building. (He may have been under certain restrictions, however, if an architect/developer is willing to put his name to it, then they should take a bit of pride their work.) Bringing up to the current day, I think there are far too many examples of poor building design that are being accepted by nameless councilors. Take Springfield Quay (ETAP hotel/casino) - both the council and the architect should hang their heads in shame if they were involved in this project - its a building crime against our city, that is unfortunately going to stick around for the next 40 odd years. There are so so many other examples, however, councillors/develope rs/architects/builde rs continue to put up sh*te, knowing that they can easily slip away with their nice tidy profit, once the building is up. [/quote] Couldn't agree more! Not only does GCC permit absolute monstrosities to be built, but they are often erected next to architectural important and attractive buildings, so demeaning the area even more. Take for example, the ghastly slab called the Ikon, which resembles a gigantic pidgeon loft and which sits right next to the Suspension Bridge and St Andrew's Cathedral. Another example is the hideous multi-storey car park facing Scotland Street School, which was supposed to complement the school! Others are Buchanan Galleries, The Concert Hall, Vue Cinema, Bewley's Hotel in Bath Street which is totally out of scale with the surrounding buildings, the multi-storey containers next to The Clyde Arc and The Pinnacle flats which are slap next to St Vincent Street Church, which is a building of world-wide importance, although sadly neglected up till now. The list goes on and on and I'm sure others readers could think of far more examples.
What is even more tragic is that after The City of Architcture and Design year was finished, the director, Ivan Sudjic stated that in order to build on the year's successes, all future buildings planned for Glasgow had to meet the most stringent design parameters or permisssion would be refused. Some hope!
Do the people in the Planning Department have to have any specialist knowledge of their job or do they just automatically rubber-stamp every application, as in the recent comments of a faceless official, when quizzed about yet another conroversial approval that "taste is subjective".In this light perhaps the city's motto should be changed to "abandon taste all ye who enter here"
Big Al wrote:
I reckon that there should be an exhibition on all building crimes against Glasgow that have been committed since the 60's (public and private). Yes, it was the Glasgow Corporation that commissioned these buildings - who were responsible for these decisions. But, it was also Basil that designed the building. (He may have been under certain restrictions, however, if an architect/developer is willing to put his name to it, then they should take a bit of pride their work.) Bringing up to the current day, I think there are far too many examples of poor building design that are being accepted by nameless councilors. Take Springfield Quay (ETAP hotel/casino) - both the council and the architect should hang their heads in shame if they were involved in this project - its a building crime against our city, that is unfortunately going to stick around for the next 40 odd years. There are so so many other examples, however, councillors/develope rs/architects/builde rs continue to put up sh*te, knowing that they can easily slip away with their nice tidy profit, once the building is up.
Couldn't agree more! Not only does GCC permit absolute monstrosities to be built, but they are often erected next to architectural important and attractive buildings, so demeaning the area even more. Take for example, the ghastly slab called the Ikon, which resembles a gigantic pidgeon loft and which sits right next to the Suspension Bridge and St Andrew's Cathedral. Another example is the hideous multi-storey car park facing Scotland Street School, which was supposed to complement the school! Others are Buchanan Galleries, The Concert Hall, Vue Cinema, Bewley's Hotel in Bath Street which is totally out of scale with the surrounding buildings, the multi-storey containers next to The Clyde Arc and The Pinnacle flats which are slap next to St Vincent Street Church, which is a building of world-wide importance, although sadly neglected up till now. The list goes on and on and I'm sure others readers could think of far more examples.
What is even more tragic is that after The City of Architcture and Design year was finished, the director, Ivan Sudjic stated that in order to build on the year's successes, all future buildings planned for Glasgow had to meet the most stringent design parameters or permisssion would be refused. Some hope!
Do the people in the Planning Department have to have any specialist knowledge of their job or do they just automatically rubber-stamp every application, as in the recent comments of a faceless official, when quizzed about yet another conroversial approval that "taste is subjective".In this light perhaps the city's motto should be changed to "abandon taste all ye who enter here"
Posted by: jrb, Glasgow on 3:31pm Wed 16 Jan 08
[quote][bold]Murraymint[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]Big Al[/bold] wrote: I reckon that there should be an exhibition on all building crimes against Glasgow that have been committed since the 60's (public and private). Yes, it was the Glasgow Corporation that commissioned these buildings - who were responsible for these decisions. But, it was also Basil that designed the building. (He may have been under certain restrictions, however, if an architect/developer is willing to put his name to it, then they should take a bit of pride their work.) Bringing up to the current day, I think there are far too many examples of poor building design that are being accepted by nameless councilors. Take Springfield Quay (ETAP hotel/casino) - both the council and the architect should hang their heads in shame if they were involved in this project - its a building crime against our city, that is unfortunately going to stick around for the next 40 odd years. There are so so many other examples, however, councillors/develope rs/architects/builde rs continue to put up sh*te, knowing that they can easily slip away with their nice tidy profit, once the building is up. [/quote] Couldn't agree more! Not only does GCC permit absolute monstrosities to be built, but they are often erected next to architectural important and attractive buildings, so demeaning the area even more. Take for example, the ghastly slab called the Ikon, which resembles a gigantic pidgeon loft and which sits right next to the Suspension Bridge and St Andrew's Cathedral. Another example is the hideous multi-storey car park facing Scotland Street School, which was supposed to complement the school! Others are Buchanan Galleries, The Concert Hall, Vue Cinema, Bewley's Hotel in Bath Street which is totally out of scale with the surrounding buildings, the multi-storey containers next to The Clyde Arc and The Pinnacle flats which are slap next to St Vincent Street Church, which is a building of world-wide importance, although sadly neglected up till now. The list goes on and on and I'm sure others readers could think of far more examples. What is even more tragic is that after The City of Architcture and Design year was finished, the director, Ivan Sudjic stated that in order to build on the year's successes, all future buildings planned for Glasgow had to meet the most stringent design parameters or permisssion would be refused. Some hope! Do the people in the Planning Department have to have any specialist knowledge of their job or do they just automatically rubber-stamp every application, as in the recent comments of a faceless official, when quizzed about yet another conroversial approval that "taste is subjective".In this light perhaps the city's motto should be changed to "abandon taste all ye who enter here" [/quote] Other monstrosities you could mention are the "wedge"in polock,the car park adjacent to Scotland street school,and numerous metal clad, new builds dotted throughout the city....
Murraymint wrote:
Big Al wrote: I reckon that there should be an exhibition on all building crimes against Glasgow that have been committed since the 60's (public and private). Yes, it was the Glasgow Corporation that commissioned these buildings - who were responsible for these decisions. But, it was also Basil that designed the building. (He may have been under certain restrictions, however, if an architect/developer is willing to put his name to it, then they should take a bit of pride their work.) Bringing up to the current day, I think there are far too many examples of poor building design that are being accepted by nameless councilors. Take Springfield Quay (ETAP hotel/casino) - both the council and the architect should hang their heads in shame if they were involved in this project - its a building crime against our city, that is unfortunately going to stick around for the next 40 odd years. There are so so many other examples, however, councillors/develope rs/architects/builde rs continue to put up sh*te, knowing that they can easily slip away with their nice tidy profit, once the building is up.
Couldn't agree more! Not only does GCC permit absolute monstrosities to be built, but they are often erected next to architectural important and attractive buildings, so demeaning the area even more. Take for example, the ghastly slab called the Ikon, which resembles a gigantic pidgeon loft and which sits right next to the Suspension Bridge and St Andrew's Cathedral. Another example is the hideous multi-storey car park facing Scotland Street School, which was supposed to complement the school! Others are Buchanan Galleries, The Concert Hall, Vue Cinema, Bewley's Hotel in Bath Street which is totally out of scale with the surrounding buildings, the multi-storey containers next to The Clyde Arc and The Pinnacle flats which are slap next to St Vincent Street Church, which is a building of world-wide importance, although sadly neglected up till now. The list goes on and on and I'm sure others readers could think of far more examples. What is even more tragic is that after The City of Architcture and Design year was finished, the director, Ivan Sudjic stated that in order to build on the year's successes, all future buildings planned for Glasgow had to meet the most stringent design parameters or permisssion would be refused. Some hope! Do the people in the Planning Department have to have any specialist knowledge of their job or do they just automatically rubber-stamp every application, as in the recent comments of a faceless official, when quizzed about yet another conroversial approval that "taste is subjective".In this light perhaps the city's motto should be changed to "abandon taste all ye who enter here"
Other monstrosities you could mention are the "wedge"in polock,the car park adjacent to Scotland street school,and numerous metal clad, new builds dotted throughout the city....
Posted by: jrb, Glasgow on 3:33pm Wed 16 Jan 08
Correction..POLLOCK.
...of course .....
Correction..POLLOCK.
...of course .....
Posted by: Brad, Glasgow on 4:59pm Wed 16 Jan 08
Correction 2 - POLLOK!
I don't think that the exhibtion in Gorbals should be a "tribute" or "celebration" but we should remember and learn from the past. I've been to the bigger exhibition in Edinburgh, which is fascinating and I'd encourage others to go along. The Gorbals blocks were Spence's only realised designs of that kind. He's also responsible for Coventry Cathedral (apparently Britain's favourite modern building) and the British Embassy in Rome.
As mentioned previously in this thread, these blocks were designed in a different age, and were partly victims of changing economic and social circumstances. High-rise isn't necessarily bad - Anniesland Tower is very popular - but just needs to be used sparingly and sensitively.
Correction 2 - POLLOK!
I don't think that the exhibtion in Gorbals should be a "tribute" or "celebration" but we should remember and learn from the past. I've been to the bigger exhibition in Edinburgh, which is fascinating and I'd encourage others to go along. The Gorbals blocks were Spence's only realised designs of that kind. He's also responsible for Coventry Cathedral (apparently Britain's favourite modern building) and the British Embassy in Rome.
As mentioned previously in this thread, these blocks were designed in a different age, and were partly victims of changing economic and social circumstances. High-rise isn't necessarily bad - Anniesland Tower is very popular - but just needs to be used sparingly and sensitively.
Posted by: Cochrane, Gorbals on 5:11pm Wed 16 Jan 08
Jimmy Mutter proves once again that if a monkey is put up for election with a Labour Party rosette he will get elected.
His pomposity and ignorance is breathtaking.
Jimmy Mutter proves once again that if a monkey is put up for election with a Labour Party rosette he will get elected.
His pomposity and ignorance is breathtaking.
Posted by: Murdo Ritchie, Parkhead, Glasgow on 6:00pm Wed 16 Jan 08
[bold]Prejudice Drives Housing Not Fact![/bold]
The middle classes, the media nd their cronies rely on prejudice about multi-stories. That's why they brought in the multi-storey review to removce as many as possible.
Many of the contributers on this site and elsewhere have repeatedly pointed out how enjoyable life has been in multi-storey flats when the councillors properly supported them, brought in a concierge system and when tenants associations spoke on behalf of the tenants.
Yet,it is like shouting over a gale of prejudice from people who've never seen the inside of a multi but have opinions they've concocted.
I used to live in Red Road and the film they made is little short of slander. To make it they had to specially vandalise the lifts so that it would fit their prejudices.
It's amazing!!!
Prejudice Drives Housing Not Fact!
The middle classes, the media nd their cronies rely on prejudice about multi-stories. That's why they brought in the multi-storey review to removce as many as possible.
Many of the contributers on this site and elsewhere have repeatedly pointed out how enjoyable life has been in multi-storey flats when the councillors properly supported them, brought in a concierge system and when tenants associations spoke on behalf of the tenants.
Yet,it is like shouting over a gale of prejudice from people who've never seen the inside of a multi but have opinions they've concocted.
I used to live in Red Road and the film they made is little short of slander. To make it they had to specially vandalise the lifts so that it would fit their prejudices.
It's amazing!!!
Posted by: jrb, Glasgow on 6:08pm Wed 16 Jan 08
[quote][bold]Brad[/bold] wrote:
Correction 2 - POLLOK! I don't think that the exhibtion in Gorbals should be a "tribute" or "celebration" but we should remember and learn from the past. I've been to the bigger exhibition in Edinburgh, which is fascinating and I'd encourage others to go along. The Gorbals blocks were Spence's only realised designs of that kind. He's also responsible for Coventry Cathedral (apparently Britain's favourite modern building) and the British Embassy in Rome. As mentioned previously in this thread, these blocks were designed in a different age, and were partly victims of changing economic and social circumstances. High-rise isn't necessarily bad - Anniesland Tower is very popular - but just needs to be used sparingly and sensitively.[/quote] MY Apologies. Imagine getting a"plaice "and a "fish" mixed up.....!
Brad wrote:
Correction 2 - POLLOK! I don't think that the exhibtion in Gorbals should be a "tribute" or "celebration" but we should remember and learn from the past. I've been to the bigger exhibition in Edinburgh, which is fascinating and I'd encourage others to go along. The Gorbals blocks were Spence's only realised designs of that kind. He's also responsible for Coventry Cathedral (apparently Britain's favourite modern building) and the British Embassy in Rome. As mentioned previously in this thread, these blocks were designed in a different age, and were partly victims of changing economic and social circumstances. High-rise isn't necessarily bad - Anniesland Tower is very popular - but just needs to be used sparingly and sensitively.
MY Apologies. Imagine getting a"plaice "and a "fish" mixed up.....!
Posted by: AndrewM, Shawlands, Glasgow on 6:32pm Wed 16 Jan 08
It is a real shame that councillors who held power and influence for many many years feel the need to complain about things that they could have changed during their time in office. 23 years as a councillor, during which the flats became slums, and he wants to blame the architect. They didn't call him Mutter the nutter for nothing.
It is a real shame that councillors who held power and influence for many many years feel the need to complain about things that they could have changed during their time in office. 23 years as a councillor, during which the flats became slums, and he wants to blame the architect. They didn't call him Mutter the nutter for nothing.
Posted by: Eddie Taylor, Kingspark on 7:04pm Wed 16 Jan 08
Mr Mutter does not know what he is talking about.For the 23 years i lived there i,ve never known it as alcatraz. The new Gorbals your having a laugh.How many of the families from the flats stay in the so called new Gorbals Mr Mutter.Bring back the old gorbals were real families can afford the houses
Mr Mutter does not know what he is talking about.For the 23 years i lived there i,ve never known it as alcatraz. The new Gorbals your having a laugh.How many of the families from the flats stay in the so called new Gorbals Mr Mutter.Bring back the old gorbals were real families can afford the houses
Posted by: McGinty, The North on 7:10pm Wed 16 Jan 08
[quote][bold]The Missing City[/bold] wrote:
I saw this creepy space age structure in 1989 while I was in my final year at school in nearby Wolseley Street. Having a friend who lived in the building, it was riddled with junkies and prostitutes and I bet it was quite an experience for anybody who lived there. Of course back in the late 60's all was well, people still had jobs, there was some kind of optimism about the place, but by 1975, the place was about to go to the dogs. And that's exactly what happened. People died as a result of this structure and many others which existed, even an old womnan died when the block was being blown up back in 1993, so I can't understand why this architect of destruction has been given an award. Although there was bad property in the Gorbals mainly due to greedy private landlords, the fact of the matter is that not all properties in the Gorbals was slums. Even though some structures were poor in sanitation and some had structural defects due to old 18th century mine workings or bomb damage due to the war and some which had no roofs., these could have been wiped out for a complete rebuild and at the same time, preserving the community and the area as a whole. There was also this overspill thing which has now underpopulated Glasgow by at least 400,000 people and a whole new set of problems have arisen since this occured. Well done to all responsible! An award for being a contributor to Social destruction - yes, not bad at all! [/quote] Agree with this. Old tenements were recoverable, albeit with improved sanitation, sewerage, amenities and maintenance. This happened extensively in other parts of Scotland like Aberdeen, easier perhaps, due to superior building stone, but it was still necessary to install kitchens, bathrooms, toilets etc. Would like to think Scotland acknowledges these mistakes but the lack of a sense of community is now compounded by other factors. We need to learn from this once and for all, and build homes with character that are designed towards enhancing communities, and renovate buildings which are important to them, such as in Ruchill.
The Missing City wrote:
I saw this creepy space age structure in 1989 while I was in my final year at school in nearby Wolseley Street. Having a friend who lived in the building, it was riddled with junkies and prostitutes and I bet it was quite an experience for anybody who lived there. Of course back in the late 60's all was well, people still had jobs, there was some kind of optimism about the place, but by 1975, the place was about to go to the dogs. And that's exactly what happened. People died as a result of this structure and many others which existed, even an old womnan died when the block was being blown up back in 1993, so I can't understand why this architect of destruction has been given an award. Although there was bad property in the Gorbals mainly due to greedy private landlords, the fact of the matter is that not all properties in the Gorbals was slums. Even though some structures were poor in sanitation and some had structural defects due to old 18th century mine workings or bomb damage due to the war and some which had no roofs., these could have been wiped out for a complete rebuild and at the same time, preserving the community and the area as a whole. There was also this overspill thing which has now underpopulated Glasgow by at least 400,000 people and a whole new set of problems have arisen since this occured. Well done to all responsible! An award for being a contributor to Social destruction - yes, not bad at all!
Agree with this. Old tenements were recoverable, albeit with improved sanitation, sewerage, amenities and maintenance. This happened extensively in other parts of Scotland like Aberdeen, easier perhaps, due to superior building stone, but it was still necessary to install kitchens, bathrooms, toilets etc. Would like to think Scotland acknowledges these mistakes but the lack of a sense of community is now compounded by other factors. We need to learn from this once and for all, and build homes with character that are designed towards enhancing communities, and renovate buildings which are important to them, such as in Ruchill.
Posted by: jrb, Glasgow on 8:16pm Wed 16 Jan 08
[quote][bold]AndrewM[/bold] wrote:
It is a real shame that councillors who held power and influence for many many years feel the need to complain about things that they could have changed during their time in office. 23 years as a councillor, during which the flats became slums, and he wants to blame the architect. They didn't call him Mutter the nutter for nothing.[/quote] Yes good point,and isn't history repeating itself,with the deafening silence from our current crop of councilors in respect to some of the hideous buildings inflicted upon the city ,and properly worst to come...
AndrewM wrote:
It is a real shame that councillors who held power and influence for many many years feel the need to complain about things that they could have changed during their time in office. 23 years as a councillor, during which the flats became slums, and he wants to blame the architect. They didn't call him Mutter the nutter for nothing.
Yes good point,and isn't history repeating itself,with the deafening silence from our current crop of councilors in respect to some of the hideous buildings inflicted upon the city ,and properly worst to come...
Posted by: sighthillman, Glasgow on 9:20pm Wed 16 Jan 08
Great to hear so many good comments for a change about the tower blocks, most people that live in the towers are good people just like the people that live in low flats and houses, alot of people think people that live in the towers are this that and the next thing, also great views of the city to be had, its a shame so many are being pulled down and alot do not need to be either after all they are fairly modern and in good shape, long live the tower blocks.
Great to hear so many good comments for a change about the tower blocks, most people that live in the towers are good people just like the people that live in low flats and houses, alot of people think people that live in the towers are this that and the next thing, also great views of the city to be had, its a shame so many are being pulled down and alot do not need to be either after all they are fairly modern and in good shape, long live the tower blocks.
Posted by: emma, Glasgow on 9:22pm Wed 16 Jan 08
Oh Mutter go back to counting your golden handshake and thinking of the bugger all you did for the area. The exhibition is about Basil Spence, we know the flats were a mistake socially, but architectually they were exciting and are a modernists dream. Is Mutter looking for a property company to give him a wee day job?
Oh Mutter go back to counting your golden handshake and thinking of the bugger all you did for the area. The exhibition is about Basil Spence, we know the flats were a mistake socially, but architectually they were exciting and are a modernists dream. Is Mutter looking for a property company to give him a wee day job?
Posted by: aliceaa, USA on 3:03am Thu 17 Jan 08
Don't click on this!!But if u do, add prettygothic on GOTHICMINGLE COM
Don't click on this!!But if u do, add prettygothic on GOTHICMINGLE COM
Posted by: weediv, Canada on 4:29am Thu 17 Jan 08
To bad they did not have Justin and Colin around then they would have fixed it up with there flower pots and nick knacks
To bad they did not have Justin and Colin around then they would have fixed it up with there flower pots and nick knacks
Posted by: Pete, Glasgow on 9:17am Thu 17 Jan 08
I used to live in a tower block and enjoyed it thoroughly. Certainly a friendlier place - and with more community spirit - than when I lived in Hyndland. It is quite staggering though the amount of ill informed snobbery directed towards tower blocks. Yes, maybe they're not ideal - and we'd all like to live in big detached houses with nice gardens - but in Glasgow were created to meet some very real and pressing housing needs. Just like the new tower blocks being built in Tradeston or on the Partick waterfront and selling for £200k. I spoke to someone who worked on the waterfromt flats. He said he'd be surprised if they lasted 30 years...
I used to live in a tower block and enjoyed it thoroughly. Certainly a friendlier place - and with more community spirit - than when I lived in Hyndland. It is quite staggering though the amount of ill informed snobbery directed towards tower blocks. Yes, maybe they're not ideal - and we'd all like to live in big detached houses with nice gardens - but in Glasgow were created to meet some very real and pressing housing needs. Just like the new tower blocks being built in Tradeston or on the Partick waterfront and selling for £200k. I spoke to someone who worked on the waterfromt flats. He said he'd be surprised if they lasted 30 years...
Posted by: Brad, Glasgow on 10:30am Thu 17 Jan 08
Pete, "friendlier than Hyndland"... damning with faint praise, surely?!
Pete, "friendlier than Hyndland"... damning with faint praise, surely?!
Posted by: Sydney Meriwether, Glasgow on 10:56am Thu 17 Jan 08
This topic is a perfect example of how the editorial line taken by the ET in recent years is damaging its readership numbers. [bold]There was no fury directed towards Sir Basil[/bold]; instead the comments on here demonstrate a tangible fury towards the Labour ex-councillor, who has tried in vain to misrepresent the feelings of a community and create a scapegoat out of a single architect, when the people of Glasgow know the real villains of the piece were - and are - encamped in Glasgow City Chambers.
This topic is a perfect example of how the editorial line taken by the ET in recent years is damaging its readership numbers.
There was no fury directed towards Sir Basil; instead the comments on here demonstrate a tangible fury towards the Labour ex-councillor, who has tried in vain to misrepresent the feelings of a community and create a scapegoat out of a single architect, when the people of Glasgow know the real villains of the piece were - and are - encamped in Glasgow City Chambers.
Posted by: Pete, Glasgow on 1:36pm Thu 17 Jan 08
[quote][bold]Brad[/bold] wrote:
Pete, "friendlier than Hyndland"... damning with faint praise, surely?![/quote] Brad,
I of course meant "friendlier even than Hyndland, and that's saying something!" Hmm.
Brad wrote:
Pete, "friendlier than Hyndland"... damning with faint praise, surely?!
Brad,
I of course meant "friendlier even than Hyndland, and that's saying something!" Hmm.
Posted by: Brad, Glasgow on 5:23pm Thu 17 Jan 08
Oh, OK.
Posted by: The Missing City, Glasgow on 6:02pm Thu 17 Jan 08
[quote][bold]sighthillman[/bold] wrote:
Great to hear so many good comments for a change about the tower blocks, most people that live in the towers are good people just like the people that live in low flats and houses, alot of people think people that live in the towers are this that and the next thing, also great views of the city to be had, its a shame so many are being pulled down and alot do not need to be either after all they are fairly modern and in good shape, long live the tower blocks.[/quote] Sorry mister, but even I've had to divert on my journey walking through you're precious sh1tehill because young guys are steaming out their faces and not knowing what they carry, this goes on nearly every weekend in life. People stacked on top of each other is a slum - I take it you love Moscow and Chicago and the estates of Inner East London? These things have destroyed many areas, particularly close to the city and they have restricted growth for the past 50 years as a result of development and the huge consumption of landspace for a few tower blocks.
As far as I can see you only think for yourself regarding your post, and you don't think for the city as a whole.
sighthillman wrote:
Great to hear so many good comments for a change about the tower blocks, most people that live in the towers are good people just like the people that live in low flats and houses, alot of people think people that live in the towers are this that and the next thing, also great views of the city to be had, its a shame so many are being pulled down and alot do not need to be either after all they are fairly modern and in good shape, long live the tower blocks.
Sorry mister, but even I've had to divert on my journey walking through you're precious sh1tehill because young guys are steaming out their faces and not knowing what they carry, this goes on nearly every weekend in life. People stacked on top of each other is a slum - I take it you love Moscow and Chicago and the estates of Inner East London? These things have destroyed many areas, particularly close to the city and they have restricted growth for the past 50 years as a result of development and the huge consumption of landspace for a few tower blocks.
As far as I can see you only think for yourself regarding your post, and you don't think for the city as a whole.
Posted by: sighthillman, Glasgow on 10:55pm Thu 17 Jan 08
[quote][bold]The Missing City[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]sighthillman[/bold] wrote: Great to hear so many good comments for a change about the tower blocks, most people that live in the towers are good people just like the people that live in low flats and houses, alot of people think people that live in the towers are this that and the next thing, also great views of the city to be had, its a shame so many are being pulled down and alot do not need to be either after all they are fairly modern and in good shape, long live the tower blocks.[/quote] Sorry mister, but even I've had to divert on my journey walking through you're precious sh1tehill because young guys are steaming out their faces and not knowing what they carry, this goes on nearly every weekend in life. People stacked on top of each other is a slum - I take it you love Moscow and Chicago and the estates of Inner East London? These things have destroyed many areas, particularly close to the city and they have restricted growth for the past 50 years as a result of development and the huge consumption of landspace for a few tower blocks. As far as I can see you only think for yourself regarding your post, and you don't think for the city as a whole. [/quote] I new it was only a matter of time till i would have you attack my comments as you do with everyone who posts, you seem to think you speak for everyone, a large chunk of Glasgows population lives in tower blocks, i think you are jealous , you need to learn some manners you are an ignorant p****, i do not take kindly to the abuse you throw at people when it is not justified, i do like Moscow very much having spent time there and many other cities around the world, what rubbish you talk about hugh consumption of land, houses would take up much more land, much more, no wonder even you(fancy yourself as a hardman) would not walk through Sighthill with the abuse you have said about it, but with your pigeon hole views you will not be walking to many places unless there is no tower blocks, Sighthill is not the only place you get young guys drinking etc, my views are my own unlike you i do not think of myself as some sort of spokesperson, lucky for me on this posts people are fond of the towers, i suggest you get a job as clearly the amount of typing your doing you could be working rather than spending your day posting and spoiling the posts as you are on everyone(why should i and everyone else who works paying taxes for you to sit on your arse), you think you are a know all, i think you are to, a know all of Fcuk All
The Missing City wrote:
sighthillman wrote: Great to hear so many good comments for a change about the tower blocks, most people that live in the towers are good people just like the people that live in low flats and houses, alot of people think people that live in the towers are this that and the next thing, also great views of the city to be had, its a shame so many are being pulled down and alot do not need to be either after all they are fairly modern and in good shape, long live the tower blocks.
Sorry mister, but even I've had to divert on my journey walking through you're precious sh1tehill because young guys are steaming out their faces and not knowing what they carry, this goes on nearly every weekend in life. People stacked on top of each other is a slum - I take it you love Moscow and Chicago and the estates of Inner East London? These things have destroyed many areas, particularly close to the city and they have restricted growth for the past 50 years as a result of development and the huge consumption of landspace for a few tower blocks. As far as I can see you only think for yourself regarding your post, and you don't think for the city as a whole.
I new it was only a matter of time till i would have you attack my comments as you do with everyone who posts, you seem to think you speak for everyone, a large chunk of Glasgows population lives in tower blocks, i think you are jealous , you need to learn some manners you are an ignorant p****, i do not take kindly to the abuse you throw at people when it is not justified, i do like Moscow very much having spent time there and many other cities around the world, what rubbish you talk about hugh consumption of land, houses would take up much more land, much more, no wonder even you(fancy yourself as a hardman) would not walk through Sighthill with the abuse you have said about it, but with your pigeon hole views you will not be walking to many places unless there is no tower blocks, Sighthill is not the only place you get young guys drinking etc, my views are my own unlike you i do not think of myself as some sort of spokesperson, lucky for me on this posts people are fond of the towers, i suggest you get a job as clearly the amount of typing your doing you could be working rather than spending your day posting and spoiling the posts as you are on everyone(why should i and everyone else who works paying taxes for you to sit on your arse), you think you are a know all, i think you are to, a know all of Fcuk All
Posted by: Alex Cameron, Christchurch New Zealand on 9:08am Fri 18 Jan 08
I was a young boy when they built these buildings, and one of my cousins lived in one and they had water running down the walls, like a lot of other new houses in different schemes.
These blocks were the same or a simmilar design to buildings Spence designed for the Middle east somewhere.
Can anybody tell me if they ever saw the "Hanging Gardens" that were supposed to be in them.
At the time they served a pupose, and let people have a Toilet and a Bath inside the house.
These buildings were not designed for the Scottish climate but for some far of land.
Alex. Cameron (Born and brought up in 144 Mathieson Street, and proud of it.
I was a young boy when they built these buildings, and one of my cousins lived in one and they had water running down the walls, like a lot of other new houses in different schemes.
These blocks were the same or a simmilar design to buildings Spence designed for the Middle east somewhere.
Can anybody tell me if they ever saw the "Hanging Gardens" that were supposed to be in them.
At the time they served a pupose, and let people have a Toilet and a Bath inside the house.
These buildings were not designed for the Scottish climate but for some far of land.
Alex. Cameron (Born and brought up in 144 Mathieson Street, and proud of it.
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