The title of Scotland’s “most dismal” town has been awarded, with critics pointing out its potential but criticizing its lack of strategic investments.
The Carbuncle Awards, which returned in 2025 after a ten-year hiatus, have named Port Glasgow in Inverclyde as the recipient of the infamous ‘Plook on the Plinth’ prize. This award is given to the ugliest town in the country.
Port Glasgow, celebrating its 250th anniversary, is the winner of the 2025 Plook on the Plinth award. It is the second-largest town in the council area, with a population of around 14,000 residents.
Described as having “squandered potential,” Port Glasgow was portrayed by Urban Realm, the architecture magazine behind the Carbuncle Awards, as a town with grey walls, rubble, and boarded-up windows. Notably, the town is home to the Clune Park housing estate, often referred to as “Scotland’s Chernobyl.”
Urban Realm criticized the decision to demolish the estate, emphasizing its solid construction and historical significance in housing a vibrant community. The magazine highlighted that Port Glasgow’s landscape is dominated by a retail park and a dual carriageway, which detracts from the town’s vibrancy.
The neglect of the waterfront, once bustling with shipyards, was also noted by Urban Realm. John Glenday, the Carbuncle Awards organizer, expressed disappointment in the town’s underutilized potential and lack of investment.
In response to the award, Provost of Inverclyde Drew McKenzie defended Port Glasgow, denouncing the Carbuncle Awards and highlighting the town’s ongoing transformation and achievements. He emphasized that the recognition did not reflect the town’s true essence and potential.
McKenzie pointed out the town’s diverse offerings, including award-winning businesses, historical landmarks, a thriving retail sector, and scenic surroundings. He criticized the narrow focus of the award study and highlighted the town’s unique features and attractions.
Past recipients of the Plook on the Plinth award include Airdrie, Glenrothes, and Aberdeen. Cumbernauld in North Lanarkshire remains the only town to have won the award twice.
For more information, visit the Urban Realm website for additional details on the Carbuncle Awards and the latest updates.