So you want to live in... the Gorbals?

Why the Gorbals?

Once notorious as one of Glasgow's worst slums (conditions became so bad that residents were eventually relocated to new towns outside Glasgow, such as Cumbernauld), the area has been transformed by a new regeneration scheme.

Are we talking household names here?

Architect Piers Gough has stamped his mark on the project, with an award-winning master plan. His previous work includes numerous distinctive London Dockland landmarks, such as China Wharf, The Circle and Wolfe Crescent.

What are the neighbours like?

Pretty civilised and respectable, according to Pam Divers from Stewart Milne Homes. She says her clients tend to be "mostly young professionals and couples in their twenties and thirties who are first- time buyers".

Will it hold/increase its value?

Buyers are queueing up to purchase properties in the Gorbals and many phases have already sold out. Nairi Eckford from Countryside North Estate Agents predicts that there will be continuing growth. "Prices have shot up during the past year. A two-bedroom apartment which sold for £80,000 is now expected to fetch around £98,000".

Any other local attractions?

A 25ft bronze sculpture, nicknamed the Angel of the Gorbals. Nearby are a number of historic sights such as the category 'A' listed building, the Caledonia Road Church.

How much?

Properties range from one- and two-bedroom apartments through to four-bedroom town houses and even a penthouse. Prices start at around £78,000 for a one-bedroom apartment in Queen Elizabeth Square (Countrywide North, 0141-552 1400), through to £150,000 for a four- bedroom town house, with a small garden and an integrated garage, in Regent Square (Stewart Milne Homes, 0141-429 2070).