GCU researchers to help shape River Clyde project

GCU researchers are to help transform the River Clyde into a global tourism destination.

The University is teaming up with Clyde Docks Preservation Initiative (CDPI) to protect and promote the river's rich maritime heritage.

The social enterprise has entered into an Innovation Voucher Scheme with GCU to develop a digital mapping process for its Turning the Tide On the Clyde project, a celebration of the river's history and communities.

The resource will then be used to support a programme of diverse events, activities and attractions throughout the River and Firth of Clyde region, encourage new activities to be developed and identify untapped opportunities.

This collaboration enables CPDI to tap into the academic expertise at the University with Dr Caroline Gallagher, Engineering; Daniel Baxter, Event Tourism; and Dr Julie Thomson, Innovation, involved in the project.

The Innovation Voucher Scheme, supported by the Scottish Funding Council, is aimed at building relationships between small enterprises and higher education institutions in Scotland.

Daniel Baxter, Principal Investigator, said: "GCU is delighted to be supporting CPDI in this project, which will support the development of event tourism along the River Clyde. 

"These projects help strengthen the links between industry and academia and create opportunities to transform, create and engage new and innovative ideas."

Iain McGillivray, Executive Director of CDPI, added: "This is a great opportunity to develop something that has never been done on the Clyde – a comprehensive process to identify the full recreational potential grounded in maritime heritage and addressing sustainability and future community resilience."​