Millenium space - Govanhill

Ever passed the above and wondered what is was or is for? In 1999 five areas of Glasgow were designated for renewal under the Millennium Space project, for Glasgow's year of architecture and design . One of these areas was Govanhill.

'The Millenium Hut' was designed by Studio Kap Architects in collaboration with the artist Claire Barclay to provide a community facility, with in the area.. A garden store, workshop, library, growing shelves and viewing platform are contained within a timber three storey structure of new and recycled elements.

Is the structure ever open to the public and is it still in use? Does anyone know?

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Gourock Outdoor Pool

cc-by-sa-2.5: Dave souza at Wikipedia.

This is definetly Deep South but it is such an interesting place and I was surprised by how few people know it exists, so we thought it worth writing about.

Built in 1909 the Gourock Swimming Pool is rather unusual. Its outside! One of only two outdoor pools remaining in Scotland it occupies a pretty spectacular location, right on the banks of the River Clyde and looking across to the Argyll Hills. Its location is not just for show though as the water that fills the pool is actually taken from the Clyde itself. It goes through a process of filteration and cleaning during which it is also heated to a lovely warm minimum temperature of 30oC. Like a nice bath.

The idea of going for a swim outside is always nice and when we were in Hungery not so long ago we went along to the public baths where people sit themselves down in the morning sun and soak in pools of warm water. Getting to do so in Scotland and in such a interesting setting sounds great and its funny that the pool is not better known or more widely advertised. I'd imagine bus loads of students and tourists being up for a trip down the Clyde for an outdoor swim. It doesn't even really matter if its sunny or raining as you're going to get wet anyway and the water is heated.

It seems it is with attracting people from further afield that the pool have organised some fun sounding events. On Wednesday 28 July and 11 August (doors open 9:45pm) the pool will have an extended opening until midnight. With a nice clear night, you'll be able to go for a swim in the Clyde under the stars.

Gourock Outdoor Pool
Albert Road
GOUROCK
PA19 1NQ
Tel 01475 631561
gourockpool@inverclyde.gov.uk
Open May - September
Times vary but around 9am - 8pm most days. Check before travelling.
 
Links:
Offical Website
Gazetteer Article about the pool
Aerial Photos

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Gifted @ 36 Busby Road

Gifted is a great wee gift shop in Clarkston, set up by husband and wife team Fiona and Barry Leathem to showcase new designers. They have a wide selection of items, from kids toys and clothes to decorative glass, gift cards and note books. The shop is small but very well packed and you are likely to find something to suit anyone you are buying for. Think our favourite things were the mugs shown below with the split fruit symbols but also liked Gillian Kyle's Teacake tote bags too.

With a lovely selection of items at Gifted, a couple of good wee charity shops nearby and Eat accross the road, a trip to Clarkston makes for a nice morning browse topped off with some tasty treats.

Gifted Website


Gifted
36 Busby Road Clarkston Glasgow G76 7XJ


Mon-Sat: 9.00-5.30


0141 6200346

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And the winner is . . . July 2010

Kids month's Great Southside Giveaway, winners, are Rebecca Thompson who has won the wonderful Kids rug from McKay Flooring, and Helen Walsh Sullivan who has won the huge pick + mix from Candy Love. The winners were selected by using the internet radomizer. Rebecca and Helen, please send us an email to claim your prize.

A special thank you to everyone at McKay Flooring, in Govan for donating such a fantastic prize for kids month and a huge thanks to Candy Love for generously donating such a great pick + mix. Plus thanks for all the tips on places for the kids, seems like the parks and the Tramway are the most popular places for kids in the Southside.

Helen and Rebecca hope you like your prizes and we look forward to getting your mini reviews of both them and the shops you collect them from.

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Planning submitted for supermarket @ Larkfield Bus Depot

The planning application has been submitted for the (previously discussed) superstore, on the site of the Larkfield Bus Depot in Govanhill. Its an unfortunate coincidence that this application was submitted on the the eve of the Glasgow Fair holiday, meaning the window for people to officially comment on the proposals falls over the two weeks of the year when a large proportion of Glasgow is not here. Its also an interesting bit of serenpidity that the day it was submitted was also the deadline for responding to the Glasgow City Plan questionaire,which in theory is a document allowing us the citizens to shape the way the City develops and which this Supermarket proposal is currently contrary to (the site is designated for housing not retail).

When the Larkfield Supermarket scheme was first raised there was a lot of debate from people both for and against, with I'd say a majority raising more concerns about the negetive impacts that the scheme could bring about. As such we thought we should provide a link to information on how to comment on the application. Its very important that the Govanhill community have a strong say in what happens in their area and this is their oppertunity to impact on a very major site right in the heart of the community. We'd urge everyone with an opinion on the matter to take a read of the below and send in their views. We also thought it worth pointing out what is and isn't grounds for representation. For example one of the things which a lot of people have raised as a concern, "the impact on local shops" is not considered suitable grounds for a representation. The list of things which you can make representations on are only-

• Contrary to the Development Plan
• Appearance (design, materials, scale, massing etc)
• Traffic, parking and access problems
• Residential amenity (noise, overlooking, overshawdowing)
• Effect on listed buildings and Convervation Areas.

Other Council's have moved to an electronic system, but unfortunetly Glasgow doesn't yet upload applications for ease of review. Therefore anyone that wants to find out more regarding the scheme will have to make time during their working week to travel to the Planning Office at 229 George Street and ask to see a copy of the drawings. planning.representations@drs.glasgow.gov.uk 0141 287 8555.

As part of the application the developers have submitted an overview report, a copy of which you can read here. Its worth a read, to get a feel for the idea the developers are trying to sell. Having read through and re-read the comments on our previous post, it would appear most of the previously raised concerns from readers have not been addressed and I can imagine quite a few people still very worried about how the site may be developed.

As mentioned in an earlier post the quality of architecture and construction which has been foiseted upon this area of the city has been dreadful, with the M74 cutting through it, cheap buildings like the plaza thrown up to make a quick buck or the baths closed down to save a quick buck. It would be a tradegy if the Govanhill area was still not allowed to have a stronger say in what gets built or were not able to expect and to demand more thought, care and quality in how their area is developed. Therefore we urge everyone to take some time to read through the application, visit the planning offices if you can and make you opinions either way known.

When confronted by the huge number of complaints about the quality of the finished Plaza building the project developers said "Residents had their opportunity to object to the design during the planning process." Lets not let that happen again. If something is going to get built, lets make sure its something that we all feel deserves to get built.

EDIT: Funny but quite true image sent in by a reader below.

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Pecha Kucha @ The Tramway

Peer to Peer, 2008 by Craig Mulholland (c) Courtesy of Sorcha Dallas

The Tramway will be hosting it's second Pecha Kucha event, Sound & Fury, on Thursday 22 July. If you didn't make it along to the last one or have never heard of Pecha Kucha before here's an over view:

Artists and creative thinkers take the floor for just under seven minutes when they will share with us their passions, hopes and fears. Pecha Kucha Night was devised in Tokyo in 2003 as an event for young designers to meet, network, and show their work in public. It has turned into a massive celebration, with events happening in hundreds of cities around the world. Drawing its name from the Japanese term for chitchat, it rests on a concise presentation format based on a simple idea: 20 images x 20 seconds.

Speakers this time will be Laura Aldridge, Steven Cairns, Roanne Dods, Laurie Figgis, Michelle Hannah, Craig Mulholland, Joanne Tatham & Tom O’Sullivan, Nicholas Party, Ciara Philips, Gregor Wright.

The last one was seemingly very interesting - we never made it along because we were not quick enough to get a ticket  so be quick it'll sell out fast. (this time...we've already got ours)

Thu 22 Jul 2010 7:00pm £4 / £3

For tickets contact the Tramway Box Office 0845 330 3501

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This Weekend 16-18 July 2010

Lots of events happening this fair weekend.

Friday night sees the opening of an exhibition of  watercolours by Southside painters Frank Boyle, Karen Cairns and Craig Smillie at 994 Pollokshaws Road.  Go along between 6.30 -.8.30 have a browse and enjoy a  glass of wine! If you can't make it on Friday night don't worry as the exhibition runs until 24th July 10am - 4pm.  

On Saturday, the farmers market will be pitching up in Queen's park from 10am till 2pm. It's the last weekend of the Christoph Buchel exhibition at the Tramway, if you have not been it really is worth while going to see the show. 12pm -6pm Saturday and Sunday

The Science Centre are holding a  fun filled family event this Glasgow Fair Weekend. They'll be having "A Grand Weekend" with loads of activities within the Centre itself and along the riverside. (Saturday 17th until Monday 19th of July)  2-4-1 admission over the weekend.

On Sunday, the residents of Battlefield will be throwing a street party, between 12pm and 6pm,  in the community garden on the corner of Arundel Dr and Ledard Rd. Bring along instruments, juggling balls, hula hoops, stories, songs. Just remember to bring along some food to share. It is the big lunch after all. more info

Improv Dogs present a night of improvisational comedy and randomness, on Sunday night, at the ex Service and Social club on Titwood road. Tickets can be bought on the door for £4.  Doors open 7.30pm

If you know of any other fun and exciting events this weekend let us know.

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Battlefield Street Party - 18 July 2010

This Sunday sees the return of the Battlefield Street Party. After the success of last years event the residents of this fab area of the city are getting together for another  big lunch celebration and invite you to join them.

Four local bands will be performing at this year's event - Brian Gibson Band, Akotron, Bakushta and Chief playing along side local DJ's. Alongside the music there will also be  a zumba and  drumming workshops throughout the day. For the kids there will be a  bouncy castle; face painting; henna and glitter tattoos.

There will also be a variety of stalls from local projects; hook a duck; tombola with fantastic and generous prizes from local businesses.

Bring along instruments, juggling balls, hula hoops, stories, songs... anything to make the party swing. Just remember to bring along some food to share.

The party starts at 12pm in the community garden on the corner of Arundel Dr and Ledard Rd.

for more info contact battlefieldcommunity@yahoo.co.uk

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Blue Lagoon - Skirving Street

I’ve never been to the Blue Lagoon on Skirving Street, mainly due to the fact that Guido’s on Coustonholm Road is marginally closer to me, however I wandered along one Sunday night to claim my winnings of a Fish Supper.

I’ve always seen people sitting in, however as a lazy Sunday evening was in store, I ordered the supper, and another one for my partner, to take away. Two girls were working behind the counter, who were very pleasant, and having shown them the letter I got my wrapped up tastiness to take away with me. As a bit of an avid badge fan, I then asked about the badge which led to a fair bit of hilarity as the girls, who, being eastern european, spoke better english than i tend to as a southsider, but did not know what a 'badge' was. Cue a game of charades, with as many words as possible to explain ‘badge’, which ended when one of the girls recognised the logo from the letter, and grabbed the badge from a shelf – I can honestly says it’s been the most fun I’ve ever had in a chip shop!

After a quick walk home, we sat down to eat our dinner. I was surprised at the amount in each supper – lots of chips, and one and half fish in each. My main worry with food from chip shops is grease, however neither the fish or the chips were particularly greasy, and with the addition of some tomato ketchup, the suppers went down a treat - Very tasty! I’ll definitely go back when a ‘chippie’ craving next hits.

* This post was written by Southside Happenings reader Jen Collinson (Winner of the Great Skirving Street Giveaway + a wee blue badge)

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Bungo in the Back Lanes 2010

We're a bit late saying this but we really, really enjoyed Bungo in the Back Lanes this year. It was the busiest I've ever seen the event, probably a lot to do with the amazing weather we had on the Saturday. Everywhere you looked there were large groups of people chatting, laughing and having fun while their skin turned slightly pink.

As usual the lanes were chock full of stalls selling everything from cupboard bric a brac, to homemade cakes and from old furniture to art. It was so busy we didn't even get a proper wander around. We were taking turns to man our table but it took so long to properly look at every stall we never got too far before having to return. 

One of our highlights though was the Craft Mafia, who were pitched up in one garden and had some great selections of interesting local handmade goods. Our favourite things however were the amazing selections of homebaking which were spread throughout the lanes. (Who knew the Southsiders were such a baking-friendly people.) There were all kinds of stalls from local shops beautifully decorated cupcakes, to child made chocolate crispy cakes but our favourite was a delicious passion fruit sponge cake made by a couple of girls in the first main lane. They had 10+ different cakes with all kinds of amazing and unusual flavours.

The only problem with this years event was that the Council didn't grant Bungo their licence to serve alcohol - despite the event having been granted a license for the previous 12 years. We have attended Bungo in the Back Lanes for the last five years and have never seen any anti social behaviour or trouble. It's the type of event where most people will have a glass of wine and listen to Jazz or a beer and chat to their neighbours. It's just a pity that the Council decided to only give their refusal at 4pm the night before, leaving the organisers no time to work out alternative proposals. We also hear a couple of people say that the environmental health were trying to stop people selling food not prepared under commercial conditions.

We understand that these issues arose this year because the Council were more involved having provided a small amount of funding. While its great that some funding is provided to ensure the event continues it would be a tradegy if the event had to change itself too much to conform to meet its funders desires. The slightly ramshakle nature of the day with the kid produced smoothies, cakes and other items are what make the event different and special and it would be a disaster if the spirit of the event was lost.

As I mentioned we've been to Bungo in the Back Lanes many times but this was the first time we've actually been involved with a stall ourselves. Normally we spend the whole afternoon wandering the lanes, browsing the stalls and hanging out in the Big Tea Garden or the beer tent area.

However this year we organised a SSH Bungo badge hunt. We were up early that morning and with the help of Gav hid fifty little Southside Happenings cards, around the lanes, on stalls, inside items, under things, and clipped to trees, we even hide one on Gav's hat (though no one was brave enough to ask him for it). If you handed in one of these cards to our stall then we gave you one of the special blue SSH badges.

At our stall we were also selling little "I Love the Southside" + "Shop South" badges and had a massive map of the Southside onto which we asked people to mark their favourite places. People were loving the map and by the end of the day it was covered in little pins with suggestions of all kinds of great places. (We'll do another post this week sometime showing all the pins.)

Thanks to everyone that pinned on the map and to those that came up and spoke to us. The entire purpose of writing this blog is to help create the kind of fun, community spirit that Bungo in the Back Lanes embodies and getting all your feedback and kind comments makes it fun to keep doing. Congratulations to the Bungo in the Back Lanes organisers, it was a great day and we are looking forward to next year already.

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Any Spare Land for Veggie Growers?

I've been growing veggies this year some courgettes, rocket, french runner beans, chillies, and peas. We don't have an allotment and unusually our tenement doesn't have a back green. We do however have access to our roof and a glazed cupola at the top of our stairs and grow our veggies in pots and window boxes. I like the idea of having an allotment, not only for the vegetable growing but also for the social side of being part of the growing community, however with waiting lists being around 3-4 years it's a long time to wait.

We know lots of people growing fruit and veggies in various places, allotments, back gardens, pots and window ledges. There is something incredibly satisfying about growing your own food, particularly in an urban environment.

A friend of ours  recently pointed us in the direction of Landshare. An organisation which connects people with spare land, to people who want to grow. The idea developed out of the the tv programme River Cottage. It began when Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall helped some Bristol families grow veg on derelict council land. Since then it has grown and now has almost fifty thousand members across the UK.

For people with land it's a win win situation. You may not have time to look after your garden, but by allowing a grower to share your space you'll have a tidy garden and some free fruit and veggies every year.

There are quite a few Southsiders already members of the scheme, so if you have a garden or some land no matter how small that you could offer to a local grower or alternatively if you are interested in growing your own veggies but need some land  sign up to Landshare.

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The first rule about Poster Club

On Sunday just prior to the World Cup Final why not take a wander along to Albert Avenue where an exhibition of posters will be taking place in someone's flat.

The Poster Club are a group of like minded printers who meet once a week at the Glasgow Print Studio to create a whole range of different posters. In March 2010 they recieved funding from Central Station to get themselves set up properly and to put together the series of work which will be shown in this exhibition.

There is a short interview with some of the Poster Club members here.

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Scotland Street School

We had loads of fun a few weeks ago when we visited the Scotland Street School. I hadn't been there since a primary school trip many years ago and couldn't remember much about it. My only scratchy memories were of us having to wear old victorian clothes, draw on slates and have a very stern woman tell us off.

The school was the last major Glasgow commission by one of the City's most celebrated sons Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Opened in 1906 it was in continuous use until 1979 when school numbers had dropped to below 100 and the doors were shut. It's a shame it closed as the spaces inside the building are fantastic, light bright and airy. We were very spolied the day we visited, not only was the school really quiet but it was also gloriously sunny. Both helped to show off what a beautiful place it is inside and we got slightly very carried away taking photographs.

After several years of closure the school was restored as Scotland's Museum of Education. It's really well done and from the moment you step inside you feel like you've gone back in time. It has that old school smell which is hugely powerful at transporting you back to being a child and as you walk around and see all the tiny chairs, small sinks and rows of low coathooks you feel a bit of a giant.

There is a whole range of different things to see, from an old b+w video about the changes in education in the 60's to examples of old school books, punishments and playground games. There are lots of things to interact with. The main assembly area is full of toys, there are interactive computers explaining different aspeccts of the history and the design and there are dunces caps to wear in the classrooms (everyone loves trying them on for some reason).

The lower floor houses the great cafe and shop (possibly worth a visit on its own), the video room and the temporary exhibition space. There area also regular workshops based around ideas of the current temporary exhibition.

Upstairs is where the real fun lies. There are three rooms set up as classrooms of the past - there is a victorian room, a WW2 classroom and a 1960's classroom. Each is filled with items from that era and are very nostalgic even for people who didn't live through those times. There is also a rather lovely cookery demonstration room where some of the workshops take place. (check out our hundreds of photos below)

Get the flash player here: http://www.adobe.com/flashplayer

The school is in a funny location - development of the bridge and the motorway saw huge changes in the area in the 60's/ 70' and where once it was right in the heart of a vibrant area it now feels quite cut off. This shouldn't put people off visiting though, its not a far walk from Pollokshields and is right beside the Shield's Road underground making it very easy for all our friends in the North to pop over for a visit.

Originally the Sculpture Studios were meant to be moving into the empty property next door but they ended up going west. Currently the plans are to build office parks surrounding the school but the old warehouses to the left are so interesting I really hope they are saved and reused somehow.

Its such an odd location, surrounded by derelict sites that it actually helps in a way to making you feel you are going back in time. Its a really great place for an afternoon out but it will be interesting to see how the school develops if its surrounding sites are built upon.

Scotland Street School Museum
225 Scotland Street GLASGOW G5 8QB
0141 287 0500

[10am-5pm Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday 11am-5pm Friday, Sunday]

How many people can answer these 1955 test questions - answers in the comments.

 Other Links

Video by a family about their visit to the school

BBC profile on Mackintosh

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Community Film Night - 30th June

On the last Wednesday of every month, a community film night is held in St Brides School, in Craigie street,Govanhill. This month 'The Yes Men Fix the World' is being shown, a screwball true story that follows a couple of gonzo political activists as they infiltrate the world of big business and pull off outrageous pranks that point out how corporate greed is destroying the planet.The film starts at 7pm  at St Brides Primary School, Craigie Street, off Allison St, Govanhill/Strathbungo.

Link to Trailer

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Singles Guerrilla Supper Club

Guerilla Supper club by it's very definition is a fleeting, secretive, culinary experience. Location undisclosed and the guests only revealed when you arrive.

On the 2nd of July Glasgow Guerrilla Supper club are hosting a singles supper.

The evening will cost you £12 which includes olives, a glass of wine, Spanish chorizo stew and fresh crusty bread, followed by Lemon polenta cake.

E-mail glasgowguerillasupperclub@hotmail.com or give Hilary a call on 07805 346314.  Once you've book  you'll be told the location of the supper club, then go along mingle, dine and have a fun night.

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This Weekend 25-27 June

After last weekend when all the buses came at once - this weekend is going to be a much calmer affair.

On Saturday the Tramway presents 'A midsummer Day's Dream with Nurse Wound' A day of experimental sound and performance, Tramway are hosting a number of events and installations in Tramway 4 & 5 from 12 - 6pm in the lead up to the Nurse With Wound performance @ 7pm, with performances from the likes of Barry Burns, Luke Fowler, Mark Vernon and many others. The event is free but it is ticketed so call the Tramway Box Office 0845 330 3501

You could take a trip over to the Scotland Street School Museum and visit the A La Mode Exhibition and wander back via the Tramway to the Christoph Büchel In the main gallery space of Tramway 2, Swiss artist Büchel has created a fictitious, yet highly believable environment constructed inside a series of shipping containers. Viewers are challenged to explore sometimes claustrophobic spaces via a network of passageways and stairs, often taking on the role of victim and viewer simultaneously. It worth going to if you get a chance.

Since it's the season for Tennis you could hire a free court in Queen's Park and play some Tennis (wether you pretend to be Andy and Nadal it's completely up to you) If Tennis is not your thing how about Lawn Bowls the Council greens in both Bellahouston and Queen's Park are free (you might need a deposit for the bowls)

David Caldwell exhibition is open from 12 - 4pm at Albert Drive Studios on Sunday.

Other than that there is always the football!

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The Great Southside Give Away - May/June

Today we're launch this months Great Southside Giveaway. The theme this month is based around Kids (Big Kids and wee Kids). We are delighted to be giving away a fantastic kids rug from McKay Flooring and a giant pic-a-mix selection from Candy Love on Pollokshaws Road. There may even be a couple of SSH badges being given away for the best comments.

To enter you must be one of the following; our friend on Facebook, our follower on Twitter, signed up to our RSS email or signed up to our Mailing List. Then just leave your name and a comment below on the subject "Name your favourite place or thing to do with Kids in the Southside" and you'll be entered into the draw. Please try to make sure it will be easy to identify you. If possible leave a link to your webpage, blog, Facebook or Twitter in the little URL option of the comments box.

The competition will run for three weeks and prizes drawn on 26 June 2010. For all the rules etc click here.

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De-Cluttering the Green Way

I decided last week that I needed to get rid of some of my clutter, my hall cupboard is full of stuff I don't need. I’ll never use the blinds which were in my flat when I moved in…but they’ve been in my cupboard now for nearly two years. It isn’t that I think I’ll use them again or that they might come in handy. It’s just that I can’t stand waste and I don’t want to fill up land fill sites with perfectly good blinds…someone somewhere can use them and maybe even like them.

I‘ve posted previously about using freecycle and freeshare. Websites to give away your unwanted belongings and also find items for free. But there are other ways to recycle any unwanted items and I’ve been in touch with them, this week, about some of my things.… no more clutter…it stops now.

First Stop Starter Packs they are a charity based in Govan and accept unwanted goods ranging from cutlery and plates, to lamps, fridges and washing machines. As long as it’s clean and in good working order. Your unwanted items can help out someone who has very little...it's a win win situation. You de clutter, give to a good cause and look after the environment.

Another charity, who are tackling poverty through reuse and recycling are Second Opportunities in Ibrox. They will pick up unwanted sofas and white goods and redistribute these to families and individuals. They provide a free furniture uplift service to households in Glasgow, south of the Clyde. Most items of furniture are gratefully accepted, provided that they meet current fire regulations, are clean and in reasonable condition. They'll also accept any unwanted office furniture, which they then sell on to subsidise their work. So if your office is clearing out any desks or needs some desks this would be a good group to support.

Obviously another great way to de clutter is to donate your unwanted clothes, toys and other items to local charity shops.

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The Willow Cafe - Scotland Street School

The Willow Cafe at Scotland Street School is a pleasant surprise, I'd been a little hesitant about stopping in for lunch as I was concerned that the cafe would be an encore cafe and normally I find that the majority of them have a poor selection and are generally over priced. The willow cafe is a little different, it's a bright airy space, with a collection of different tables and chairs. Menu consists of home made soup, baked potato, paninis, sandwiches all day breakfast, French toast bacon & maple syrup and hot rolls are served all day. They  also has hot dishes such as chilli.

The Willow cafe has a large selection of teas black ang green teas, willow fruit teas and herbal teas. Tea is served in a wee white tea pot with leaves and strainer. There is also an option of afternoon tea for £9.95 consisting of scone with cream, jams, cake, shortbread and sandwiches with tea and coffee. It also has a good range of ice cream by porrelli. Good old fashioned knickerbocker glories, peach Melba and snowballs with a variety of sprinkles.

If you are going to the Museum or are attending one of their many temporary exhibitions or events call in and try it yourself

Scotland Street School Museum

225 Scotland Street
Glasgow
G5 8QB
0141 287 0500

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Grow your own - Hidden Gardens

We were at the Hidden Gardens a few days ago and discovered that the plants and vegtables that are grown at the gardens are for sale from the Hidden Gardens Stall situated in the gardens. The stall has a range of plants ranging from tomato and pepper plants, herbs and a range of biodiversity plants

We purchased a couple of chilli plants and a pepper plant. The plants are very good value, locally grown and support a good cause.  Prices range from 50p for single vegetable plants to £5 for a box of plants, just pick your plants and put payment in the donations box. Them take them home, look after them and some you will have your own crop of tomatos, herbs or peppers.

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Mulberry Street - Strathbungo

Mulberry Street has been situated on the corner of Pollokshaws Road and Regent Park Square in Strathbungo, since 2006.  It's a busy wee family run bar and restaurant and is a popular socialising point for Southsiders especially the Strathbungo residents.

The Mulberry is split in two with the light airy bar on one side and on the other side a more intimate bistro area. The bar is a great space for chilling out on a Sunday afternoon or for some sociable drinks on a Friday night. It does get busy on the weekends and it can get quite difficult to get a seat. However they've recently been given permision for a south facing outdoor seating area. It is a great place to sit with a coffee or a glass of wine and people watch. The outdoor area closes at 9pm but by that time it's normally getting a bit chilly and you want to get inside anyway (top tip: move inside 5mins before everyone else that way you get a seat inside)

The menu in the bistro area can be described as up market pub food - Fillet of sea bass, Pork loin steak,  Thai green curry, mussels and fajitas. We've been several times as their steak is a favourite of Alburt's dads.  The food has been consistently good and service always friendly and polite. My only critism is that they could maybe do with adding a couple more vegitarian options to their menu. It's a busy wee place so make sure you book on a Friday and Saturday night.

They also have a quiz night on Monday night, it has been running for  six years - I ve heard it's quite challenging so maybe it's for the more experienced quiz team. 

Mulberry Street is a great place to have on your doorstep - just remember to book a table if you are going on a Friday or Saturday.

Mulberry Street Bar/Bistro

778 Pollokshaws Road

G41 2AE

Tel: 0141 424 0858

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The Plaza @ St Andrew's Cross

I've been meaning to write about this for a while but it took driving past at the weekend and seeing this monstrosity bathed in sunlight to really get me annoyed. The area of the city between Albert Drive and the M74 seems to have fallen through some planning cracks and pretty much anything seems to be allowed. Not only is the M74 ploughing right through the area but quite a few of the new builds which have been fired up nearby are pretty awful too.

Its not just that the actual designs themselves are not very good, but the quality of the materials and construction are also pretty shocking. (Why are all new builds made of yellow brick, a material not natively used in Glasgow?) Take a look at the building on the corner of Albert Drive/ Pollokshaws Road with the weep holes through the render and the odd drainage pipes poking through the wall at pavement level.

Worst of the bunch is The Plaza which is such a crap building its still half empty, years after finally being constructed. (I'll avoid a full appraisal as we could be here all day.) What makes the project doubly annoying was the song and dance the developers made at the time about how they were going to be respecting and reusing as many of the original elements as possible. One of the bits of marketing bumf says "The Plaza recreates the former dance halls vigor and energy in the newly built development of 77 stunning new apartments." Personally I think it more resembles the mess left in the streets after the drunken dance hall patrons have eaten a few kebabs too many, thrown up and wandered off home.

As written about elsewhere, this section of the City has been a major gap between the City centre and the extended South; a legacy of the M74 development hanging over the area for decades. What the area needs is to fill this gap by creating more density and drawing more people into the area. While that does mean more homes, shops, cafes need to be built, it shouldn't mean, that they are built cheaply or poorly, just to ensure that they do get built. For one thing, if they are done as badly as The Plaza then no one wants to live in them and they end making the situation worse.

The Plaza is in a hugely prominent location on the St Andrew's cross junction, both for those going in and out of the City centre and what has been built is a greatly missed opportunity. There was a chance here, to build something of interest and quality which really could have attracted and drawn people into the area. What has been built doesn't even address the main sight lines, relate to the nearby building or even front the road properly.

When I sat down to write this post I did a little Google and was interested to read what other people thought. Speaking to the Evening Times one local said "I think it's an eyesore. They are condemning part of the old Glasgow." and another said "Nobody in the area likes it. I used to go to the Plaza and I can't believe what they've done with it. It's ugly."

Responding to these comments, the developers said "Residents had their opportunity to object to the design during the planning process." Which, while true, is a bit misleading. A large section of the local population probably didn't hear about the project until it was well advanced. Of those that did hear, only some will have known the process for finding out more about an application or putting in an objection. Of those, only a few would be able to take the time to go and check out the drawings at the Council and even then, planning drawings can be pretty misleading and a couple of quickly rendered images can be pretty seductive.

I was also interested to read that the building was named The Worst New Building in Scotland at the 2009 Carbuncle Awards by Prospect Magazine. The editor of Prospect said "What were these people thinking? They have ended up with a building that looks ridiculous. More balls-up than ballroom."

The lesson The Plaza seem to be teaching is, that unless we, the local residents, keep an eye on exactly what is going on, then the developers will push ahead. With a few more proposed projects popping up in the area (most notably the potential new Superstore at the Larkfield Depot) people need to make sure they have their say, positive or negative before its too late.

UPDATE: A Reader has advised that the planning application for the giant superstore at the end of Victoria Road has been submitted and can be reviewed at the Planning Department's offices.

The Council's guide to having your say on Planning Applications is here and is worth a read for those with strong views on the Supermarket Proposal.

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This Weekend 18-20 June

Saturday should be a day of sunshine and wandering (fingers crossed for the sunshine)
It's the third Saturday of the month so the farmers market will be taking place in Queen's Park 10am - 2pm.

Govanhill Community Baths Trust invite you to celebrate Refugee week with them at their free garden party on Saturday. Events will be held in and around the Peace Garden on Calder Street. There will be a variety of music performances from local people and groups including: The Roma Music Group, Ceildh fiddle music and Glasgow Drumming performance. There will also be art, puppet making and flower making workshops for children and their families as well as face painting and multi cultural food. 11am - 4pm

From 1pm - 4pm Bungo in the Back Lanes will be taking place in and around the back lanes of Strathbungo. Park yourself in the Big Bungo Tea Garden, take in the sounds of the Southside with La Roche Rumba in the beer garden or if Jazz is more your thing head over to Queen's Lane to the real ale and wine tent. There is loads for the kids with a bouncy castle, face painting, arts and crafts with busy bees, and lots of childrens games. Come along and have lunch Shimla pinks will be serving up pakora and samosas, Tricia and John's BBQ will be on and they will be serving their famous burgers, as well as several other stalls serving food. If you are looking for plants then the New Victoria Gardens will be selling plants, herbs and veggie plants all grown locally.

Pollokshaws are holding their annual carnival at Greenbank Park on Netherauldhouse Road. The parade will start at 11.30am at Shawbridge arcade, then will travel down Shawbrige Street into the park.

Albert Drive Studios are  hosting 'Southern Light', an exhibition of new paintings from France by David Caldwell opening at 3pm there will be french food and wine, and music from 'The Sweetheart Revue'and a Klezmer band too. The music starts at 5pm so even if you are going to the Govanhill Garden or Bungo in the Back Lanes you'll still have time to get over to Polloksheilds.

Why not take a wander down to the farmers market, then spend some time at the Govanhill Garden Party. You can wander through Bungo in the Lanes and head on up to Albert Drive Studios.

On Sunday the MHFS Mens 10km is taking place on Sunday morning starting and finishing in Bellahouston Park. If you are not taking part you could go along and cheer the runners on click here for the route map.

What other events are on in the Southside this weekend? Leave a comment and let us know

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A La Mode Exhibition 28 May - 17 October 2010

On Sunday we decide to take a trip to Scotland Street School to see the A La Mode exhibition. In 1912 a new luxury fashion magazine was launched in paris entitled the Journal des Dames at des Modes.

Although it only existed for little more than two years it was seen as a sensation. The fashion prints were produced by some of the leading artists and illustrators of the day. The images were produced using the 'pouchoir' stenciling technique which gave the a richness and depth of colour that is still visible in the surving prints. Glasgow City Council holds 17 volumns of this rare magazine and at are exhibiting forty of the A La Mode prints until the 17 October 2010.

Along side this exhibition Scotland Street School are running several other events and courses. Including Mililinery courses (10 July) Silk Painting (26 June 2010) and Jewellery Design (17 July/21 August) . There are also a series of talks including the illustrated history of the fashion print and fashion during the Belle Epoque 1900-14.  for more events www.glasgowmuseums.com

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3D photos @ Queen's Park Camera Club

Last week we, and around twenty Southside Happenings Readers, were treated to a private view at the Queen's Park Camera Club of their end of year exhibition and a fantastic presentation of 3D photography by Denis Alyshev. Everyone had a great night and big thanks to Queen's Park Camera Club for inviting us along and for the extremely tasty mini donuts.

It was brilliant just getting a look inside this mysterious building and hearing more about the club's history. The star attraction of the night however was definetly the great 3D images that Denis presented of his adventures around Russia, Japan and Scotland. Using two overlapped projectors onto a silver screen the images created by Denis were stunning. As you moved your head around, your brain tricks you into thinking its the objects in the image that are moving. One shot in particular of a mountain ridge was simply amazing, you felt like you might fall off.

With 3D the big thing in the cinemas again these days, it was nice to see where the original roots of the concept came from. Denis simple technique uses one camera, he takes a shot, moves a bit to his left and takes another. Its so simple that you can actually get the 3D effect by putting two of the images side by side and crossing your eyes. Take a look at the images on Denis website and try it yourself. (Warning: It takes a lot of practice.)

Thanks again to Denis, Tom and Michael for organising it all and thanks to all the readers that won tickets, hope you had a good time and enjoyed your wee badges.

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Bungo in the Lanes 2010

Just recieved this poster, map and programme from the guys organising the Bungo in the Lanes event this year. For those that have been before you'll know what an unusual and brilliant event it can be. For those that haven't been then make sure you get along between 1 - 4pm Sat 19 June, for an odd mix of stalls, games, music and food. Where else can you buy piles of old lady bird books and jigsaws, burgers cooked in someones garage and bannana smoothies made by a group of 8 year olds.

Its a great community run event based around raising awareness and funds for the Strathbungo Society. Click on the image below for more info or look at the interactive map.

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Should I really be excited about the circus?

When I was a wee boy, we lived across from the field where every year the Circus would come to perform. Every summer I would get very excited about the idea of seeing lots of amazing stunts and incredible animals and every summer I would take my seat and end up being slightly disappointed. Everything would smell of damp and muddy hay, the burgers were rubbery, there would be no animals, the clown wasn't funny and I'd just be terrified that something would go wrong. Not really out of fear that something terrible would actually happen but just out of an empathetic embarrassment for the poor performer, who screwed up, in front of all those watchful eyes.

Why then, when I walk around the Southside and see the entire city fly-posted into oblivion with their posters do I still get the same childish excitement that the Circus is coming to town?

I haven't been to the circus for years, the last time we went was for the Chinese State Circus about four years ago. We opted for the really cheap seats which were a big mistake. We ended up practically behind the stage and could only see half the main circle, though interestingly we could also partly see backstage where there seemed to be twice as much activity. Our foolish choice of seating did not really lend itself to a great night and so its hard to give a fair appraisal of the show. I remember however being very impressed by a troop of small guys jumping through hoops and by a woman who could change the colour of masks on her face with a wave of her magic cape.

The worst moment of the night however was a routine involving a stocky man trying to climb a free standing ladder. He failed over and over again. Initially we thought it a bit of a drawn out drama in the act, but after a good five or six minutes of failure and an extremely frustrated and embarrassed look on the performers face, it became clear it was just a painfully unpleasant moment for both him and the audience. Eventually the ringmaster came out to drag him off but he refused to go, demanding that he complete the trick. The drums which had slowly started to peeter out started up again, the audience all started to bang their feet and clap their hands and our, by now, tragic hero psyched himself up for once last try. . . He almost made that time too, he got a hand on the second from top rung before him and his ladder fell to earth and both were ushered off stage, even the ladder looked rather sheepish. 

And yet, despite my fear for performer's embarassment coming true, I spot the big top in the distance and I still think, "Hey that looks good.".

Taking a look at some of the photos posted here and others on Zippos website, complete with cast photos, documentary videos and interestingly a "jobs page" (sadly no current vacancies) you start to see why.

The Circus' continued success is in part due to the ways they've changed, modified their performances and introduced new acts, but it's mainly down to that hugely nostalgic and comforting feeling they embody. No matter how many times we all go, there is something built into our social consciousness that crackles to life when the big top starts to go up. There is a romance to the life and the characters which we buy into, which probably no longer, or indeed never existed. The ringmaster, the strongman, the trapeze and the contortionist are all characters that as children we are brought up to recognise and around whom stories and ideas are formed from an early age. They are as inbuilt into our upbringing as the classic shapes and sounds of a farm or the ability to identify the animals in the zoo (another event whose experience never quite equals its imagined promise).

I've begun to realise however that actually, the muddy hay smell, the poor slapstick comedy and the nasty tension when something went wrong were actually as big a part of the fun of the experience as the amazing stunts or the clever tricks. In short the very things I thought were rubbish as a child are the things I'm looking forward to now and I think its maybe about time I gave the circus another chance.

Now, I've obviously not yet been to this particular Circus at the Queen's Park Recreation grounds so have no idea what it will actually entail or if it will be good but any show that features an old man in a top hat getting budgies to perform feats of daring on tiny bicycles as pictured below gets my vote and I look forward to seeing Norman Barrett MBE "The worlds best ringmaster" putting the rest of the troops through their paces.

Zippos Circus runs from Friday 11 June until Wednesday 23 June with shows at 3pm and 7pm at weekends and 5pm and 7:30pm during the week.

Prices vary but most shops round the park have piles of discount vouchers which you should pick up before going to save up to £4 off each ticket. You can also buy them online at the cheaper prices.

Queen's Park Recreation Ground

Pollokshaw's Road

Glasgow G42 8DA

 

PS - check out the page where Zippos will hire you out circus equipment. I like the idea of hiring a small clown car or a knife throwing table. Wonder if Ann will let me get one?

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Poetry and writing

Really interesting sounding new writing group starting up in Skirving Street at Young's Interesting Books. Its being organised by Jayne Brown and she promises lots of tasty chocolate biscuits and an antidote to world cup fever. The Group will be meeting fortnightly between 6 - 8pm from 15 June onwards and people are welcome to join, to find out more and to book a place then contact Jayne.

Tuesday seems to be the day for writers of all kinds as there are now also poetry performances running at the Ivory organised by Jacqueline Smith. These will be happening the first Tuesday of each month between 7-9 at The Ivory Hotel, Camphill Avenue and cost just a £2 donation. For more information on these performances, who will be performing or how to get a readers slot then contact Jacqueline.

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The Greek Golden Kebab @ 34 Sinclair Drive

The Greek Golden Kebab in Battlefield is a bit of a Southside institution, the first Greek restaurant in Scotland, its been serving diners amazingly tasty food for over thirty years. Go through any good food guide to Glasgow and its almost sure to get a mention, so why is it not better known, even in its local area?

The reason I suspect is that from the outside it doesn't look like its going to be anything special, tucked down a side street in a largely residential area, the restaurant window with its net curtains, plastic wines and illustrations of diners doesn't really shout out, fine dining. Even the name is slightly off putting with the word kebab having, over the last thirty years, become associated with greasy late night fast food on the way home from the pub, far removed from what is actually on offer inside.

 

Once you do go inside however your eyes, ears and nose are in for a real treat and are in danger of overload. Soft twanging Greek guitar tunes come from speakers in the ceiling, immediately sending your brain off to an island in the Mediterranean and the smells from the kitchen of roasting lamb and spices jump out and grab you like in a cartoon.

The place is very small, split into just 7 small booths which each sit comfortably 4 people. (We tried seven people once and while it worked out ok, it was such a tight squeeze we had to take turns cutting up our food.) Each booth is separated by a wall of plastic wines and fruit with wood walls, red fabric chairs and every available space decorated in Greek memorabilia. Ornaments, postcards and decorative plates hang and sit on every surface and you find your self constantly looking around to see what else you can spot.

Its been written about by others elsewhere but your really do feel like you've just walked into someone’s front room. This feeling is made all the more strong by the lovely staff who work there, who fuss around you, natter away about what you’ve been up to and make you feel so at home you could take your shoes off and put your feet up.

There is a large menu of food to choose from with all the Greek staples you'd expect including taramasalata, to dolmades, moussaka and keftedes. To get the most out of your experience at the Golden Kebab I highly recommended going for a very long walk first and have a small lunch as you will be needing the space, the portions are huge.

The plates and the glasses all have a retro-chique straight out the 1970’s with gold rim and brown flower patterns. Each dish is served with a choice of rice, chips or potatoes but so far everyone I’ve been with has ordered the roasties. Everyone loves roasties, they should be on the menu in every restaurant. The potatoes when they come are large and crispy. I had the moussaka the last time and can honestly say it was fantastic. It was so good I just kept eating it long after the point at which I was full. Ann had the veggie keftedes and Gav had a roast joint of lamb. All three of us thoroughly enjoyed our meals but all three of us really struggled to polish off our plates, but somehow we managed it.

 

The number one thing about the Golden Kebab and the reason for its continued success is not just the great food but the overall package of the experience. The slightly off putting shop front, combined with the 1970’s décor, the tiny tables and the huge portions make it a really odd but wonderful night out. Go once and you will feel like you've discovered somewhere secret, its the kind of place that once you've been you want to go back, taking new friends with you so that you can show them this amazing place you've found. That’s why it continues to be so popular while at the same time is not so well known, it’s like a secret club, you feel like you need to be in the know, to go.

Highly recommended, just remember to book early as they are only open Thurs – Sun from 5pm – 1am and its usually very busy. (They also do takeaway)

PS - Its cash only no plastic. (Thanks to reader Ry for reminding us - never fear though as the Co-Op cash machine is just round the corner.)

The Greek Golden Kebab

34 Sinclair Drive

Battlefield

Glasgow G42 9QE

0141 649 7581

07887528490

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