RESIDENTS across Glasgow North West have had their say on the future of one of the city’s most historic parks.

People living in Knightswood, Scotstoun and Whiteinch were among those to offer their opinions on the next steps for the red blaes pitches at Victoria Park as part of a consultation process operated by Glasgow City Council (GCC).

An online survey received 1,468 responses on three proposals which were put forward including the creation of a community orchard, a community sports facility and grassing over the blaes pitches.

The survey revealed that opinions on plans by Broomhill Sports Club (BSC) to create a sports facility at the park were mixed with 47 per cent of responses agreeing and 47 per cent disagreeing with the idea. The remainder took neither side.

Those who commented said a sports hub may help improve health and fitness among children and young people by encouraging them to take part in sport, also increasing the availability of leisure facilities in the area. Others argued there was already sufficient provision at nearby Scotstoun Leisure Centre, though it was said this was often full at peak times.

Concerns were raised over potential noise and light pollution and that the proposal may restrict free and open access to the park if it was fenced off and access prevented at certain times of the day, with another worry being a potential commercialisation of the park.

Steve Prince, chairman of BSC, told the Post: “We were pleased to see that a lot of people are keen to see the park developed. "We have been disappointed with some of the misinformation that was put out about us. We are an inclusive community organisation in which anyone can take part, regardless of their ability to pay or play.” Mr Prince added: “There is a desperate shortage of facilities for people to play sport. That is the truth of the matter. If there’s going to be a proper legacy from events like the Commonwealth Games, we need a lot more sport facilities for young people to enjoy.” Friends of Victoria Park (FoVP) had been campaigning to create a community orchard, bike recreation area and community garden. Among those who took part in the survey, 55 per cent agreed with the idea while 33 per cent disagreed. Feedback received during the consultation indicated support for the inclusiveness of the idea, with its potential appeal to a wide variety of age groups and those with a disability.

The environmental benefits were also noted while it was felt the idea was creative and in keeping with the rest of the park. A lack of any fee or subscription was noted as a positive by some, while others who took part highlighted possible educational benefits for local schools.

Questions were raised, however, about who would be responsible for maintaining it and how it would be funded.

A spokeswoman for FoVP said: “We are heartened by the support the proposal received. Crucially we note the strong view emerging that suggests that the park must be open and available to everyone and the disquiet that many people feel with what they see as the possible commercialisation of the park.

“There was a high level of responses, which was pleasing to see, and we received a good level of support so we will continue to work with interested parties to try and find the best way forward.” The final suggestion included in the survey involved grassing over the blaes pitches. Around 43 per cent of those who took part agreed while 39 per cent disagreed.

Although viewed as a low-cost, flexible solution, it was also noted that this suggestion was not as ambitious as the other proposals.

Councillor Alistair Watson, executive member for sustainability and transport, said: “The comments collated during the consultation helps us understand the full breadth of views of the community.

"It’s clear Victoria Park is visited by a very wide range of people and it’s important that we consider all ideas and suggestions put forward before making a decision.” The results of the survey will now be considered as part of a review and recommendation process for the future of the pitches.