Scotland’s largest regeneration site gets green light

North Lanarkshire Council has given the green light to regenerate the former steelworks site at Ravenscraig — one of the largest brownfield sites in Europe.

Developers Ravenscraig Ltd have been given planning permission for a masterplan to develop the 376 hectares of derelict land on the site near Motherwell.

The planning application gives ‘in principle’ approval to the masterplan; each individual development within the plan will require detailed planing permission.

The steelworks closed in 1992 and was once home to the largest hot strip steel mill in Western Europe.

The masterplan includes residential areas, education and community facilities, business and employment areas, open space including a town park, hotels, a new town centre with retail, leisure, business, housing and associated transport infrastructure.

The planning decision comes just weeks after initial works began on a new £3.7m public park at Ravenscraig.

It also follows North Lanarkshire Council’s announcement of a £190m roads programme that will boost Ravenscraig’s regeneration.

Part of the Glasgow City Region City Deal, it represents the biggest single roads and infrastructure investment in North Lanarkshire’s history, with construction work due to begin later this year.

‘This is the most significant regeneration project in North Lanarkshire and, indeed, Scotland which will see new communities created, with homes and facilities for 12,000 people,’ said the council’s deputy leader, Cllr Paul Kelly.

‘The masterplan for Ravenscraig will completely transform the area, bringing much needed homes, jobs, leisure facilities, green spaces, shops and business opportunities.’

Ravenscraig Ltd director, Nick Davies added: ‘This is a momentous decision that will unlock Ravenscraig’s potential and help to attract more investment into this famous site. There has already been significant regeneration work over the last decade and we’re proud to say Ravenscraig is now a thriving community.

‘This represents the beginning of the next phase of regeneration at Ravenscraig. With planning approval now granted, we will move forward with our ambitious plans to further transform the site, ensuring sustainability and inclusive growth are at the heart of our approach. We are committed to working with North Lanarkshire Council and investors to deliver on the promise of Ravenscraig.’