THE credit crunch has led to an unexpected windfall for one of Glasgow's most troubled areas.

A developer is to hand over a site to the community following complaints from people in Govanhill about the condition of derelict land left by the demolition of the former Clada club.

Now owner Sami Singh has agreed to lend the site to locals for up to three years after putting off plans for flats he had hoped to build.

This afternoon local campaigners are to hold a "common-unity day" festival at the site in Westmoreland Street, in an area dubbed Ground Zero because it is regarded as the epicentre of social problems in the area.

They hope local people will come up with ideas on how the site can best serve them.

Building a children's play area, a recycling area or using the space for a weekly market have already been suggested.

Organiser Cathie Cowan said: "I know of so many people committed to making Govanhill a better place and the street event is a great opportunity to make a difference to the area.

"I am very pleased the property owner has agreed to pass this site over to the community on a temporary basis."

The site has lain vacant since the former Hampden Picture House was pulled down exactly two years ago, following the closure of the Up 'n' Down club which had taken over from the Clada.

Mr Singh submitted an application to build 16 flats and two shops on the site but with a downturn in the housing market, is delaying the project.

Ms Cowan, who also runs the local community health and care partnership, said: "It's great that local residents will get access to the space."

Organisers want local people to make their suggestions for the site today at the party which will include music from Radio Awaz and Sunny Govan Radio and fire-eating.