Cuningar Loop proves its mettle as lockdown oasis
Cuningar Loop, the urban woodland park in the heart of Glasgow has proved a real boon to local residents looking for lockdown exercise.
Ideally situated for residents of Parkhead, Bridgeton and Rutherglen, the park has had a positive impact on the local area in the four years it has been open – but has proved its worth in the COVID-19 health crisis.
Paige Klinkman, area Visitor Services Manager for Forestry and Land Scotland, which looks after Cuningar Loop, said;
“Cuningar was developed for the local community and is a significant asset to the local area – it provides green and wild space in an area that was previously neglected, and makes a positive contribution to the regeneration of the local area.
“About half of the people who would use the park live within 2 miles, so it has been the perfect location for people to enjoy some exercise while following the current guidance on staying safe and keeping physically distant.
“Some of the facilities at the park – such as the bouldering area and the play area – are currently still closed but there are still many people visiting for a walk - particularly dog walkers and families with children, many of whom visit more than once a week.
“It’s a great resource during lockdown – a little oasis of almost normal - and has played its part in helping people look after their physical and mental health and wellbeing.”
A survey carried out earlier in the year highlighted that although the park is already seen as a valuable recreational and economic benefit to the area, more could be done to make it more visible to a wider audience.
Paige added;
“As we emerge out of lockdown and our staff start returning to work, one of the things we’ll be looking at is how to make Cuningar Loop even more accessible.
“It’s a fantastic site for a day out for people of all ages.
Notes to editors
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Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
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Media enquiries to Paul Munro, Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 0131 370 5059 or paul.munro@forestryandland.gov.scot
- Cuningar Loop is an Urban Woodland Park, on the banks of the River Clyde that first opened to visitors in 2016. It provides a range of features including adventure play, bike pump track, bouldering zone, boardwalk and events area. It is located in an area of previously derelict wild land, on a distinctive bend on the Clyde in the East End of Glasgow.