South Lanarkshire
Unitary authority in south central Scotland, created in 1996 from
three districts of Strathclyde region
Area:
1,772 sq km/684 sq mi
Towns:
Hamilton (administrative headquarters), Lanark, Rutherglen, East Kilbride,
Carluke, Cambuslang
Physical:
Area of stark contrast: predominantly rural to the south and urban
to the north. The river Clyde flows through the area. Tinto (707
m/ 2,320 ft) is a key landmark to the south
Features:
Craignethan Castle; Carstairs State Hospital, New Lanark
Industries:
Textiles, electronics, engineering
Agriculture:
Fruit cultivation in the valleys of the Clyde; less intensive grazing
and stock rearing in the upland south; dairying around the urban
core in the north
Population:
(1995) 307,400
History:
New Lanark village is a World Heritage Site, significant for the attempt
to improve living conditions for workers and their families.
Economy
The northern part contains de-industrializing towns, towns within the
Glasgow economic system, and the new town of East Kilbride. To
the south, a more rural economy prevails, focused aroung the market
town of Lanark. The area is one of economic contrast.
Environment
There are 38 Sites of Special Scientific Interest, two National Nature
Reserves, and three country parks.
Administrative History
The districts of Clydesdale, East Kilbride, and Hamilton were merged
into South Lanarkshire in 1996. Prior to 1975, this area was part
of the county of Lanarkshire.
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