Glasgow North-East by-election: Conservatives focus on deserving causes

Nov 3 2009

SCOTTISH Conservative candidate Ruth Davidson got her hands dirty as she focused on environmental issues on the campaign trail.

Ms Davidson visited Reidvale Allotments in the Gallowgate, a previously decaying piece of land which attracted gangs and anti social behaviour.

Thanks to a s280,000 project last year the area was redeveloped into Glasgow's first urban allotment since the Second World War.

With allotments in high demand across the city, the example at Reidvale was one which deserved recognition, according to Ms Davidson.

"This is another fantastic example of a community working together," she said.

"This used to be a derelict park where gangs roamed and anti-social behaviour blighted the lives of the residents, but the local people have transformed it into a hidden gem.   
 
"Throughout this constituency community groups and voluntary bodies are making a real difference to the lives of the residents.

"In this by-election there is a chance to shine a light on all these deserving causes and show all the good going on in Glasgow North East."

The Conservatives have called for a national allotment summit to develop a plan to create more allotments the length and breadth of Scotland.