The people of Uddingston have the opportunity to share their views on an exciting proposal to develop new sporting facilities for the area as part of an extensive community engagement exercise.
The proposal to develop Porterswell Playing Fields, as part of a community asset transfer (CAT), into a multi-purpose sports facility is being driven by Uddingston Shinty Club (USC). USC is a registered charity originally created by local pupils in a bid to increase sporting opportunities for young people in the area. Initial ideas for the development include a shinty pitch, astro pitches, flood lighting and a clubhouse or indoor community facility. However, the final proposal going forward will very much reflect the views shared by the local community through the consultation which launches on 24/06/26 with a questionnaire. From there, a six-week series of engagement events will take place and include drop-in sessions, community and sports group discussions and local exhibits on the proposal.
Lee Thompson, Chair of USC and PE teacher at the local grammar school, is urging people to participate in the consultation so that their voices can not only be heard but formally documented as part of the CAT process.
Lee said, “As a registered charity, being open, transparent and accountable is fundamentally part of who we are and how we do business. So, this will be an inclusive, comprehensive and well publicised programme of engagement. “While the proposal will create a fantastic facility for young people, the whole community and future generations to come, we understand that there will also be concerns and questions. We’re keen to talk to as many people as possible and explore how we might be able to address those concerns moving forward but, equally important, how we might best reflect the wider needs and wants of everyone in the area”
CATs provide a wide range of funding sources which enable us to look beyond the initial idea and develop the playing fields even further. For example, creating cycle paths, lit walkways or dog walking areas.
Lee continued, “ USC would become responsible for maintaining the grounds and improving the grass area. As part of this we would guarantee pitches remain free and open for education and schools. As well as a grass pitch which can be used for football, rugby and shinty, we would aim over time to create a 4G pitch, club house, changing rooms, public toilets, maintained bins, parking and a Green walk way to provide a safe walking area in the community.
“While exploring possibilities is exciting, we really need a clear final proposal going forward for a successful transfer. That’s why we need people to take part so we can identify and prioritise what’s most important.”
“While exploring possibilities is exciting, we really need a clear final proposal going forward for a successful transfer. That’s why we need people to take part so we can identify and prioritise what’s most important.”
The questionnaire is available online at https://uddingstonshinty.com/ or in printed, including large print format, from Bothwell Futures and Uddingston Library. Hard copies can also be sent out by post by contacting 07551439622. A schedule of follow-up engagement events will be available on all USC social media at the beginning of July.
