A landmark transformation in South Lanarkshire has reached its conclusion as Robertson Construction Central West completes the final construction phase of the Cuningar Loop Woodland Park.

To mark the end of more than ten years of work on the ambitious urban greening project, a symbolic final tree was planted by Clare Haughey, MSP for Rutherglen.

Acting as the principal contractor across all phases for over a decade, Robertson has worked alongside Clyde Gateway and Forestry and Land Scotland to repurpose a once-derelict riverside site. The project, which serves as a tangible legacy of the 2014 Commonwealth Games, has turned vacant land into a popular woodland park that recorded nearly 400,000 visitors during its first year of operation.

The final stage, Phase 3, represented a £1.25 million investment that converted four hectares of derelict land into high-quality green space. This concluding phase introduced 1,000m² of new paths, 8,000m² of wildflower meadow and urban woodland, and approximately 50 native trees. Additionally, wider East Greening works were carried out across the river, including the planting of 800 shrubs and 200 native trees along the Clyde Walkway.

Sustainability was a core focus of the final works, with more than 3,500 cubic metres of cleaned soil reused from nearby Manscroft Place. This initiative assisted Robertson in diverting 100% of waste from landfill.

-- Advertisement --

Earlier stages of the development, overseen by Forestry and Land Scotland, introduced various community features such as Scotland's first outdoor bouldering park, a bike skills zone, adventure play areas, and a pedestrian bridge connecting the site to the Commonwealth Games Athletes' Village. Phase 2 previously expanded the park by 9.1 hectares, adding 167 specimen trees and an 11,000m² wildflower meadow, alongside an £800,000 car park and entrance upgrade.

Supported by the Scottish Government's Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme and Clyde Gateway, the completion of Phase 3 means the final section of the site will be removed from Scotland's Vacant and Derelict Land Register.

Andy McLinden, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction Central West, said: "It has been immensely satisfying for Robertson to be involved in the decade-long journey at Cuningar Loop from start to finish, and to have been called on time and again by Clyde Gateway as a trusted partner of choice to realise their bold vision for the site. In planting the final tree today, we reflect on the many high-quality projects that we have delivered for Clyde Gateway and how that relationship continues to grow and flourish."

Clare Haughey, MSP for Rutherglen (Constituency), said: "Cuningar Loop has become a hugely valued local asset, enjoyed daily by families, schools and visitors from across Scotland. This final phase completes the story and helps ensure the park continues to thrive for generations to come. The transformation of this site over the past decade has been remarkable, turning an area of derelict land into a vibrant, accessible green space that promotes wellbeing, biodiversity and community connection. It is a fantastic example of what long‑term regeneration and partnership working can deliver, and I am delighted to see the masterplan reach its conclusion with such a positive legacy for the people of Rutherglen and Glasgow's East End."

Martin McKay, Chief Executive of Clyde Gateway, said: "This final tree planting represents much more than the end of construction. It symbolises years of partnership working to transform former industrial and landfill land into one of Scotland's most loved woodland parks. Completing the masterplan is a proud moment for the area and everyone involved."

Andrew Clark, Regional Visitor Services Manager at Forestry and Land Scotland, said: "Seeing the final tree planted is a significant milestone - a moment that reflects the hard work, creativity and commitment that have gone into creating a welcoming, biodiverse space that will continue to benefit people and nature for many years to come."