Home Report Viewpark

Viewpark is seen as a post-World War II area, however, it was mostly rural up until the 19th century, when the foundations of the area as we know it today were laid. The construction of Viewpark House and other mansions, the mineral riches of coal in the area, the construction of the new Edinburgh Road, and the Clydeside Junction Railway, brought new residents to the area. Then, the residents mainly lived in the typical hamlets of miners’ row cottages of the time. Moving forward some years later, the post-World War II development as we know it today was originally built to house displaced miners and was erected quickly over the 1940s and 50s.

Viewpark takes its name from a onetime rural estate of the area, Viewpark House – built around 1835 – and grounds, now unfortunately demolished. The grounds, however, now named Viewpark Gardens, persist, and despite being quite hidden, offer an attractive place for horticultural enthusiasts with Japanese and Highland plant displays on show for visitors, among other plant collections. It also hosts an annual Summer Flower Festival. The Gardens have other attractions like the various water features – miniature waterfalls and ponds – attracting all manner of wildlife, not to mention four glasshouses showcasing tropical fish, cacti and more. The demonstration gardens and the ‘Sustainable Garden’ give visitors ideas and suggestions for plants suitable for the average house and garden. One of the most striking is the ‘Black and White’ garden. Additionally, there is a modern play area for young children to enjoy.

At one time the area had its own local industry and major employers, notably the Caterpillar Tractor Company, and Ranco Motors, as well as a sizeable workforce for the Ravenscraig Steel Facility. These companies have long closed and now residents mainly commute to Glasgow city, and the wider Lanarkshire area, due to the proximity of the M74 and M8 motorways. Many of the former industrial sites have been built upon with new modern housing stock.

In terms of local schooling, Viewpark is served by two primary schools, St John Paul II Primary school, was created as a result of the amalgamation of St Columba’s and St Gabriel’s primary schools in May 2006, and Tannochside Primary School and Nursery. The nearby secondary schools are Cardinal Newman in Bellshill and Uddingston Grammar School. Fallside Secondary School is a small facility for pupils with special educational and behavioural needs.