The new issue of G41 is out this week, with an update on how things are progressing on the campaign for a town centre plan for Shawlands.

One thing I wasn't able to fit in to the print edition was a letter we received from Rev Fiona Gardner of South Shawlands Church.
We've had the best part of 100 names on our petition handed in by people who've been collecting signatures at the church, and the minister has also taken the time to write to G41, Nicola Sturgeon MSP and Clr Archie Graham (Langside Ward, Labour) listing issues highlighted by members of the congregation. Here's what she said:

"Many of the people consulted said that they would like representatives from all the community councils involved to be on the steering committee.

Other important issues:

Better sanitation services.
Repairs to be made to the pavements and roads - eg at the pedestrian crossing over Kilmarnock Rd outside Gourlay's opticians.
A way of effectively dealing with excessive noise pollution from pubs and businesses - eg some people cannot open their windows without being kept awake at night.
Toilet provision!
More bus shelters at bus stops.
More effective legislation to deal with absentee landlords, so they have to maintain common property.
The introduction of CCTV cameras.
Hanging flower baskets.
A way of attracting better shops back to the area, by example, having more competitive discounts, eg an iron monger, dress shops, etc.
Dealing with issues of personal security by having more beat police and community police visible on the streets.
People around to deal with litter dropped daily by school children from Shawlands Academy.
The introduction of seats, where people can rest.

These have been just a selection of the main points made by the people I have spoken to. There is a great strength of feeling that Shawlands has deteriorated for too long, and that it needs investment and revitalisation. I would therefore urge all those involved to know that this is a very important issue to people in the local community, who live, work and shop in Shawlands, and to urge you to whatever is possible to address these concerns.
The people of the church would be grateful to see plans come to fruition to make Shawlands a better place to be, and would like to encourage you in this aim."