Is there a correlation between an abundance of man-made edges and an abundance of derelict spaces? How does this relate to the neglected members of the population when concerning race, class and gender? Pollokshields was created by the Maxwell family from mid 19th century onwards. It was an affluent residential district with strict planning controls of building design and use.

The sustenance of the district declined post-war, around the 1950s, and indirectly through the motorway system. Even with the introduction of the smokeless zone act and conservation efforts, the former affluent population slowly started dispersing from the district. Coinciding with this were the ‘waves’ of immigration from formerly colonised countries in the 1960s, and as an area in decline, it subsequently became an affordable place in which to settle.

The area has seen some revitalisation through conservation efforts and notably through the contribution of the immigrant community. Through the generations, these communities have set up their own businesses in the area, organised community events and local action groups, and adding life to the area. However, due to lack of funding and the neglect of Pollokshields East, in particular, derelict spaces and the desire to disperse elsewhere, still remain.

Key Themes: Neglect, Gap Sites, Post-Industrialisation, Reconnection