Glasgow unveils UK’s first city resilience strategy

Produced as part of Glasgow’s partnership with 100 Resilient Cities, the resilience strategy is based on a lengthy and detailed conversation with 3,500 Glaswegians. The strategy examines how individuals, communities, businesses and institutions can continue to grow despite the challenges created by a modern, urban setting.

The ‘Resilient Glasgow’ Strategy details almost 50 different actions intended to create a stronger and more adaptable city.

“I am very proud to present Glasgow’s first resilience strategy, which is the first of its kind in the UK,” said Frank McAveety, Leader of Glasgow City Council. “By its very nature Glasgow is a resilient city but there is always the impetus to push harder and do much more.”

McAveety launched the strategy last week at Whisky Bond–a warehouse formerly derelict and earmarked for demolition. In 2012 it was refurbished and is now home to over 60 small businesses, mainly in the cultural and creative industries.

“As a city we have dealt with so much change throughout our history,” he added. “Yet we always step forward to grasp the next challenge and again look to the future. To do build and renew now we must first tackle inequalities and ensure the least well off are fully involved in the future life of our city.”

Empowerment, unlocking placed-based solutions, economic growth and fostering civic participation provide the basic themes or pillars of the strategy. From these pillars, 14 goals have been set which will see Glasgow focus on key issues such as economic growth, tackling inequality, enhancing partnerships at all levels, delivering services around the needs of citizens and building capacity for resilience among the city’s population.

“Glasgow’s rich history, architecture, and culture are a testament to its resilience. This strategy is the result of extensive stakeholder engagement, research, and self-assessment,” said Michael Berkowitz, President of 100 Resilient Cities. “100 Resilient Cities is honoured to partner with the great city of Glasgow and committed to carrying out the vision laid out in this strategy in the coming years.”