Council boundary split tackled

Residents in Cardowan would find themselves living in North Lanarkshire

Around 170 homes in a housing development on the outskirts of Glasgow could be transferred from one local authority area to another.

The move was outlined in proposals published by the Local Government Boundary Commission for Scotland.

The houses in the Cardowan area of Stepps would become part of North Lanarkshire rather than Glasgow.

Under the present boundary system, some residents said half their house was in one area and half in the other.

The commission is seeking public opinions on the proposed transfer.

Commission secretary, Dr Hugh Buchanan said: "We are particularly keen to hear from those residents and electors affected by the proposed changes, but would welcome any interested parties' views, whether in favour of the proposals or not."

Catchment areas

The Scottish Government asked the commission to review the boundary because the border between North Lanarkshire and Glasgow splits residential properties in a recently built housing development.

Local people had raised concerns about confusion over school catchment areas

Residents were also annoyed at the distance some pupils had to travel to attend a school within the local authority area their house fell into.

The commission is proposing that the boundary be realigned with the southernmost edge of the neighbourhood.

North Lanarkshire Council supports the move but Glasgow Council has said the area should remain under its control.

I think this is a clear example of where people have a strong affinity to a community but boundary lines draw a distinction Cllr Grant Thoms SNP Glasgow North East

Councillor Grant Thoms told the BBC Scotland News website that most of the residents he had spoken to were keen to make the move to North Lanarkshire.

He said: "I think this is a clear example of where people have a strong affinity to a community but boundary lines draw a distinction.

"I fully support residents wanting to move to North Lanarkshire."

Members of the public can view the proposals at Stepps Library, Riddrie Library, The Bridge in Easterhouse, and both North Lanarkshire and Glasgow City Council headquarters.

They have until 30 January 2009 to submit written or email representations.

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version