Yoker

Yoker ("An t-Iochdar" in Gaelic) is a western district of Glasgow, lying on the northern bank of the Clyde to the east of Clydebank. It is located approximately 5 miles west of the City Centre. From the 14th century a ferry has linked Yoker with the burgh of Renfrew on the south bank. Although shipbuilding has declined, the Yarrows shipyard, now owned by BAE as part of BAE Systems Naval Ships is still in operation on the Yoker/Scotstoun boundary.

The name Yoker is an Anglicization of the Scottish Gaelic "Iochdar" meaning a low lying place; the name was attested for the first time in 1505, [David Ross, Scottish Place-names, (Edinburgh, 2001), p. 225, s.v. "Yoker"] and is one of a number of place-names in the area which suggest the longevity of the Gaelic language in the Clyde valley north of Glasgow (c/f Dalmuir, Drumchapel, Drumry, Duntocher, Scotstoun, etc).

Motor vehicles and tramcars were also manufactured in Yoker, which is now an operations centre for the North Clyde Line, part of Glasgow’s suburban rail network, the largest suburban rail network outside London.

From late 2006, there has been substantial investment in building residential property in the Yoker area; this is most likely due to the popularity of property in the banks of the Clyde.

Transport links include Yoker railway station offering services on the Argyle and North Clyde lines, the Renfrew Ferry, and numerous bus routes.

Famous Rangers F.C. footballer Sam English also played for Yoker Athletic. Another famous Yoker Athletic son was Charlie Gallagher who went on to play for Glasgow Celtic.

In March 2008, BAE Systems announced to local residents that it has began plans to demolish one of its derelict buildings at Esk Street. The building has been derelict for nearly 25 years and is now in a state of disrepair. Local residents are delighted at the news and are hoping that future development will improve the area at the Yoker Clydeside. Residential developments such as Yoker Riverfront and Bulldale Street have been a major success for the area, it is thought BAE Systems will consider selling the land to any interested developer. Demolition work is due to be completed late summer 2008.

Population

*Total: 7,991
*Males: 3,814
*Females: 4,177

Notes