Cuningar Loop facts for kids
The Cuningar Loop is a special bend in the River Clyde in Scotland. This area was transformed into a fun woodland park in the mid-2010s. It's located near Rutherglen in South Lanarkshire, just east of the Dalmarnock area in Glasgow.
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History of Cuningar Loop
Water Supply for Glasgow
Long ago, before the big Loch Katrine aqueduct was built in the 1850s, Glasgow needed water. The Cuningar Loop area was home to several reservoirs. These reservoirs took water from the River Clyde. The water was then pumped to another reservoir at Sydney Street. From there, it was sent all over the city for people to use. Famous engineers like Thomas Telford and James Watt helped design these important water systems.
From Old Site to New Park
The Cuningar Loop area used to be empty and unused. But it was completely changed into a fantastic country park. This park was a great addition to the area, especially with the 2014 Commonwealth Games village right across the river.
The park now has many cool features for everyone to enjoy:
- Big boulders for rock climbing.
- Lovely boardwalks along the riverside.
- A thrilling BMX track.
- A fun playpark for children, including a 'flying fox' (which is like a zip line!).
- Interesting public art installations.
- A large grassy area perfect for hosting events.
New Discoveries and Art
In 2019, scientists started digging holes in the park. They were looking for a way to use naturally heated water found deep underground in old coal mines. The idea was to use this warm water to heat nearby homes. Research on this project was still happening in 2021.
In the autumn of 2021, the park hosted a touring event called 'Jurassic Encounter'. It featured amazing life-size animatronic dinosaurs! Later that same year, a huge 23 metres (75 ft)-high sculpture was installed. It's called 'The Hope Sculpture' and was created by Steuart Padwick.
Footbridge
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A special footbridge was built over the river in 2016. This bridge connects the west side of the Cuningar Loop park to the Legacy Village area in Dalmarnock. It also links up with the Clyde Walkway and National Cycle Route 75, making it easy for people to walk and cycle around the area.
