Motherwell & Wishaw MSP Clare Adamson visits CentrePoint Community Hub Garden in Gowkthrapple
Motherwell and Wishaw's MSP has paid tribute to an "inspiring" Gowkthrapple facility.
Clare Adamson MSP visited the CentrePoint Community Hub Garden, where she was welcomed by Richard Bolton and Lauren McFayden for a guided tour of the flourishing outdoor space.
The Community Garden, with its blend of charm, productivity and environmental stewardship, stands as a shining example of how local dedication can transform a shared area into a thriving hub of pride, produce and connection for residents.
As part of her visit, Ms Adamson met with Paul Lennon, director of Garrion People's Housing Co-operative, and Elaine Hyslop, housing manager, to discuss the evolving needs of the Gowkthrapple community.
The discussion ranged from the social and economic challenges faced by local residents, to the Co-operative's vision for addressing these issues through housing improvements, community engagement, and social inclusion projects.
The meeting also touched on cultural representation in the area, including the recent filming of Gowk by Ryan Pollock - a project rooted in the local community and now being screened at the Edinburgh International Film Festival.
The MSP praised the film's role in capturing the spirit, history and resilience of the area.
Garrion People's Housing Co-operative Ltd has been a key part of the Gowkthrapple story since 1991, following the transfer of housing stock from Motherwell District Council.
Over the years, the Co-operative has delivered significant improvements, including three new housing developments - 1996, 1999, and 2009 - and a comprehensive refurbishment programme.
In 2011, the opening of the CentrePoint Community Hub marked a major step forward, providing flexible meeting rooms, event spaces and offices that serve as the heartbeat of local activity.
Today, the highly skilled team at CentrePoint supports both Forgewood and Garrion People's Housing Co-operatives, working closely with the management committee to deliver not just quality, affordable homes, but also a wide range of services and opportunities to bring people together, strengthen connections, and foster a more resilient neighbourhood.
Speaking after her visit, Ms Adamson said: "It was inspiring to see how the CentrePoint Community Hub Garden is bringing people together and providing a space that's both beautiful and productive.
"The passion and commitment of Garrion People's Housing Co-operative are clear to see - they are helping to shape a brighter future for this area.
"I look forward to seeing how their plans for social inclusion, community empowerment, and local engagement continue to grow in the months ahead.
"It's vital that communities like Gowkthrapple have the resources, facilities, and support they need to thrive.
"Places such as CentrePoint show what's possible when local people are given the tools and encouragement to lead positive change.
"I will continue to champion initiatives like this, which make a real and lasting difference to people's lives."
Lauren McFayden added: "It was fantastic for the volunteers and me to meet with Clare Adamson MSP at the Gowkthrapple Garden and talk to her about our community food growing project.
"Hearing her encouragement first-hand gives a real boost to everyone who puts so much effort into the garden.
"This project is a proud partnership between Garrion People's Housing Cooperative and Propagate Scotland.
"Having the support of our local MSP is vital as we work together to create a greener and more resilient community, and we're very grateful she took the time to see our work."
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