2024
Glasgow, Scotland
Clyde Gateway
Cab Group Ireland
LUC
River Clyde Riverbank Stabilisation Shawfield Masterplan Regeneration Project
Challenge
As part of the Shawfield Masterplan regeneration works, Clyde Gateway identified significant structural instability along a section of the River Clyde’s southern bank. Located between Rutherglen Bridge and the Dalmarnock Smart Bridge, this stretch of riverbank forms a critical part of a major urban redevelopment zone in Glasgow.
Ongoing erosion and degradation of the bank posed a risk to both the surrounding infrastructure and the long-term success of the regeneration programme. The project required a sustainable riverbank stabilisation solution that would not only address immediate structural concerns but also align with environmental improvement goals and future flood resilience requirements.
Clyde Gateway is one of Scotland’s largest urban regeneration initiatives, covering over 840 hectares across key areas including Bridgeton, Dalmarnock, Parkhead, Rutherglen, and Shawfield. Recognised within Scotland’s National Planning Framework, the programme aims to transform the region into a sustainable, resilient, and economically vibrant urban district. Any engineering solution, therefore, needed to support long-term environmental sustainability, landscape integration, and climate adaptation—particularly in relation to flood risk management along the River Clyde.
Solution
A reinforced earth embankment system was designed and constructed to deliver effective riverbank stabilisation and long-term flood protection. The solution utilised 255 Terramesh units alongside 114 Green Terramesh units, combining structural performance with a vegetated, environmentally sensitive finish that enhances the riverside landscape.
To ensure stability and durability, the embankment was reinforced using high-strength ParaGrid soil reinforcement, providing the necessary tensile strength to support the structure over time. A MacTex geotextile separator layer was also incorporated to prevent soil migration and improve overall performance.
This engineered riverbank protection solution was specifically designed to withstand extreme hydrological conditions, including a 1 in 100-year flood event. By improving flood resilience along the River Clyde, the project safeguards both the regeneration area and the surrounding infrastructure from potential water level surges.
The completed works deliver a robust, sustainable, and visually integrated riverbank stabilisation system, supporting the long-term success of the Clyde Gateway regeneration programme while enhancing environmental quality and resilience.
