A HOUSING association has been given the green light to build a 77-home development in Glasgow’s East End.

The scheme will see a mix of flats and houses, as well as one wheelchair accessible bungalow, erected on land on Drake Street, Calton.

Thenue Housing Association is behind the plans to redevelop the site, which includes 34 parking spaces and sits among derelict and commercial buildings.

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“Well placed for local amenities including local grocers, public houses, community centre, gym and health centre, the site is approximately 5 minutes from Bridgeton town centre,” a planning statement reads.

“The site connects the space between housing developments to the north west and south east and is bridged by a commercial belt from the north wast to the south west.”

The planning report states the surrounding area has been identified as “socially disadvantaged”, with Police Scotland consulted over the design.

“The area experiences high levels of crime associated with drugs, their supply and use and with accompanying prostitution,” the report adds, stating a pedestrian route at the north end of the site could provide a space for dealers and users, adversely affecting the security of residents.

Police Scotland said the path onto Abercrombie Street “would not be advisable due to the high volume of crime in the area, especially in relation to alcohol and drug misuse”. The force recommended extra lighting and “defensible space”, if the path was required.

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Community consultation was held in October last year, with residents asking for secure fencing, benches and a play area for children. They said the development would help reduce criminality, the report states.

Developers say the scheme aligns with Glasgow City Council’s strategies by supporting regeneration of a key area, using a brownfield site and prioritising the remediation of derelict land.