TWO multi-million pound developments aimed at breathing new life into one of Glasgow's most deprived areas are to be given the go-ahead.

TWO multi-million pound developments aimed at breathing new life into one of Glasgow's most deprived areas are to be given the go-ahead.

Almost half a billion pounds is being ploughed into the Gorbals - with planners insisting they will not repeat the disastrous housing mistakes of the 60s and 70s.

The two schemes which it is hoped will rejuvenate Hutchesontown and Laurieston will see more than 2300 new houses built.

Tower blocks which have blighted the area for almost half a century are to be demolished and offices, shops and a new hotel are planned.

Glasgow City Council's planning committee is set to give the green light to the applications tomorrow.

The Laurieston plan will see 1726 new houses, built in the style of Park Circus in Glasgow's West End, and the rebuilding of the historic Gorbals Cross, which was demolished in the 1970s.

Laurieston Regeneration, a steering group made up of public bodies and agencies including the city council, Glasgow Housing Association and New Gorbals Housing Association, is taking the £350million plan forward.

They plan to knock down the notorious Stirlingfaulds flats and transform Bridge Street and Eglinton Street into a thriving area attracting businesses and young professionals.

The scheme also includes the demolition of tower blocks at Norfolk Court and could take up to 15 years to complete.

Local businessman Willie Haughey is behind the £120million plan for Hutchesontown which centres on a derelict site at Crown Street.

Mr Haughey, who was born in Camden Street on the site of the new development, said: "This land has lain barren for 15 years."

The headquarters of his firm, City Refrigeration, now stands on an adjacent site and Mr Haughey said he wanted to do something positive with the vacant land.

"I think the Gorbals regeneration has been fantastic but the one thing that is missing is job opportunity.

"I want to put that right by building a business park which could create 2500 jobs."

His plan includes a 60- bedroom hotel with access off Cathcart Road and close to the Caledonia Road Church designed by noted architect Alexander "Greek" Thomson.

The 600 houses will be arranged in 10 blocks built round central courtyards. The ground floors will have cafes and shops.

He also plans 250,000 sq ft of business premises with car parking facilities.