About Growchapel

Growchapel is a welcoming, inclusive space in the heart of Drumchapel where everyone is included. Here, the only boxes are the ones growing plants, and the only labels are used to identify our crops!

Developed through dedicated partnership working and led by the community, our 6,000m² site is a safe haven for residents and organisations alike, whether you are here to grow your own dinner, socialise with neighbours, or simply enjoy some peace and quiet.

Our Journey: The Site Timeline

From vacant ground to a thriving community hub.

• May 2021: Construction Begins. The transformation started with major civil works, drainage, and laying the foundations for a safe community space.

• October 2021: Phase 1 Completion. The site officially opened to its first 36 plot holders, featuring our composting toilet, tool cabin, and custom-built polytunnel.

• January 2022: Global Connections. We partnered with the EU Connecting Nature project to establish a world-class governance and sustainability model.

• 2022 – 2024: Phase 2 Expansion. Growth continued with additional plots, an outdoor learning area, foraging hedgerows, and our community pizza oven.

• July 2025: GAA is Formally Constituted. Growchapel moved to a self-managed model, with the Allotment Association taking the lead on governance and site management.

• Today: We continue to see what can be achieved when vacant spaces are used for community benefit, supporting health, nutrition, and resilience.

Our Vision & Values

We believe that working the land together helps reduce crime, empower residents, and foster a greater feeling of safety.

• Community Led: We are self-managed by our members, ensuring the land is used productively and shared areas are maintained together.

• Well Governed: We follow Glasgow City Council Food Growing Team, the National Allotment Society & Scottish Allotments and Gardens Society guidance to ensure our site remains a safe, professional environment.

• Inclusive & Kind: We ask all members to behave in a way that is kind to themselves, each other, and the planet. We find common ground through "courageous conversations."

• Healthy Lives: We promote local and national wellbeing strategies, helping individuals tackle social exclusion through a connection with nature.

The Scented Sitooterie

A place to relax, reflect, and have a wee blether.

The heart of our site is the Scented Sitooterie. Featuring a beautiful pergola and sensory plantings, it is a dedicated space to:

• Connect: Chat with old friends or meet new neighbours in a quiet, scented environment.

• Recharge: Take a moment for reflection and hope, perfect for those needing to enhance their wellbeing in a safe space.

• Listen: Gather around our Storytelling Chair to hear or share stories that matter to the people of Drumchapel.