Time is running out for residents to have their say on a potential new memorial to commemorate one of the most tragic chapters in East Renfrewshire’s history.
Scotland’s worst peacetime explosion occurred at the Clarkston Toll shopping precinct on October 21, 1971.
The disaster had a devastating impact with 22 people losing their lives and more than 100 people being injured.
Rebecca Nicholson, chair of Clarkston Community Council said: “The impact of the Clarkston gas explosion is still felt now, more than 50 years on, by residents who remember that terrible day very clearly.
“Families remember those who lost their lives, the injured, and the incredible bravery of those involved in the rescue efforts.
“Despite the passage of time, it is evident that there are many who would welcome an additional memorial, and I welcome the opportunity to hear the views of the community on what this might be.”
East Renfrewshire’s MP Kirsten Oswald is working with the community council, East Renfrewshire Council, and Scottish Gas, with a view to a modest new memorial being put into place at or near the site of the explosion.
The decision to pursue a new memorial originated from discussions at the 50th anniversary memorial event where many people in attendance expressed a desire for an additional memorial item which allowed the opportunity to pause and reflect.
At present, there is a small memorial plaque at the location of the disaster, a memorial tree at the entrance to the car park of Clarkston Halls, and a plaque remembering those who lost their lives inside Clarkston Halls.
Scottish Gas has offered to fund a new memorial.
Ms Oswald told the Barrhead News: “At the 50th anniversary memorial service, it was very clear that there was a desire for an additional memorial.
“I discussed this with Clarkston Community Council and Scottish Gas, before arranging a roundtable to discuss a new memorial to commemorate the Clarkston gas explosion, which had such a devastating impact on the local community.
“I am grateful to Scottish Gas, Clarkston Community Council, and East Renfrewshire Council for their engagement.
“I look forward to hearing from the public as to what a new memorial should look like, and I would encourage anyone with an interest or connection to the explosion to have their say before the consultation closes.”
The consultation seeking the views of residents, survivors, family members, local businesses, emergency services, and others opened on August 3 and will close on September 3.
To have your say click HERE.
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