Water Row, Glasgow

Water Row is a landmark, mixed-use regeneration project that is the flagship of the Water Row Regeneration Masterplan in Govan, south Glasgow.

The Water Row Masterplan has been under development since 2017. Led by Collective Architecture and Govan Housing Association (now known as Govan Housing Group), with Glasgow City Council and the Central Govan Action Plan, it is strategically significant to both the Glasgow City River Strategy and the Glasgow City Development Plan, with each bearing set design principles to find an efficient use for land within key urban areas and along the River Clyde to help improve infrastructure, connectivity, and the wellbeing of the city’s communities.

Taking these principles into account, Glasgow City Council focused on two key deliverables: new homes, and the Govan-Partick Bridge.

The new pedestrian and cycle bridge was recognised as being hugely significant for the city, given its ability to provide a new connection between two priority communities, while also supporting their respective economies. Since its opening, it has proven to be a major success with over 1 million crossings but during the design phase, it was recognised that a landmark of this nature deserved to be complemented by a residential development of equal standing.

Proposals for the new homes were collaboratively developed alongside the community with the design deeply influenced by Govan’s landscape, the area’s rich heritage & identity, and the potential of the riverside.

The final masterplan comprises 92 2-bedroom homes for mid-market rent delivered to a low carbon standard of build, alongside 700 sqm of community-operated commercial spaces. The design approach prioritised connectivity and place-making, with staggered blocks between 4 and 6 storeys that create dynamic views both within the site and towards the surrounding areas. These blocks have established a strong, defining edge to the new public square at the bridge’s landing point, and are designed around semi-communal usable areas of hard and soft landscaping.

CCG’s iQ Timber System, integrated with our PVCu double and triple-glazed windows and composite doors, was utilised for the build, while all building services, utilities, flooring, joinery and plumbing were installed through the Group’s in-house divisional offering.

The positive legacy of Water Row extends further with its delivery helping to provide a range of community benefits, including:

4 new jobs from G51 (2no) and G52 (2no) postcodes;
1 trade apprenticeship from G51 postcode;
4 work placements with DWP Govan, each from G51 postcode;
Career events with Govan HS, site tours for Glasgow Caledonian University students, and attendance at an employability event with the Pierce Institute.

Water Row was delivered through the Scottish Procurement Alliance and officially completed in spring 2024.

Client: Govan Housing Group
Value: £24 million
Awards: