Derelict dry docks – which had a starring role in Sam Mendes’ hit film 1917 – are to be transformed into a green space thanks to £2.4m funding from the Scottish government.

The Govan Graving Docks, once at the heart of Glasgow’s shipbuilding industry, were previously used for the final painting and repair of vessels but have lain empty for 40 years.

More recently, in 2019, Oscar-winning director Mendes filmed several scenes of his First World War drama 1917 at the docks.

The government grant will be used to upgrade a riverside walkway and create a green space at the docks by 2025.

It is hoped the transformation will create a visitor attraction for the city.

The money will also be used to reverse biodiversity loss and habitat decline and attract business investment to the area.

Further restoration of the historic dockyard will see it used for repairing heritage vessels.

A footbridge linking the site to neighbouring visitor attractions, including the Glasgow Science Centre, is also on the cards once private sector funding is secured.

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‘Unique site’ one of 15 set for funding

Councillor Richard Bell, deputy leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “The Govan Graving Docks is a unique site in Glasgow, offering both a glimpse of the city’s past and a view into a future where we realise the potential of this remarkable Clydeside location.”

The project is one of 15 across the country that will share £10m from the Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme.

Other recipients include the development of a community learning campus on the site of a former Midlothian colliery and support for community-led food production in Clackmannanshire.

A project to decontaminate and redevelop former military land at Cromarty Firth into 93 affordable homes will also receive a share, as will a project in Fife to transform vacant and derelict buildings into an employment and training hub for green and rural jobs.

Community wealth minister Tom Arthur said: “Neglected sites are often found in more disadvantaged settings and can become no-go areas or hamper community development. By targeting long-standing vacant and derelict land we can ensure that investment reaches the areas that need it most.”

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