AN ALLOTMENT project aimed at helping Drumchapel residents with mental health problems has received a funding boost of more than £15,000.

The patch of derelict land between Abbotshall Avenue and Halgreen Avenue is to be transformed into a budding green space for those battling mental health issues, addiction and isolation.

The community led project, dubbed Growchapel, has been awarded a £15,500 grant from the Central Scotland Green Network Growing Food Together fund.

The cash will go towards ensuring the site is secured and pay for essential civil engineering works, such as footpaths, storage cabins, hard standing areas, drainage and cultivation, which will allow growers to access the site.

Councillor Paul Carey said: "I am absolutely delighted that the allotment has been given a £15,500 boost.

"This project is very important to the community, particularly during this pandemic.

"It will play a huge part in helping people with their mental health and also involve the community to take ownership of it. Once again, I would like to say a huge thank you to the police for starting this off and G15 for getting the young people to buy into it."

The project was greenlit in 2019, with work due to begin earlier this year, however, it has been halted due to the coronavirus pandemic.

A spokeswoman for Glasgow City Council insisted work will resume as soon as it's safe to do so.

She said: “The council and its partners are fully committed to the Growchapel project in Drumchapel.

"A project concerned with developing nature-based solutions to address health inequalities, climate change, environmental impact, health and well-being, poor biodiversity and economic deprivation.

"Our work with the team, which includes academic partners, will allow Growchapel to develop an exciting business that has long term sustainability as well as an amenity that is innovative and interactive in its approach.

“Sadly, the Covid-19 pandemic we are experiencing has prevented further work. When it is safe to go forward with the project we will let the people of Drumchapel and other partners know."