Community centre will not reopen after long campaign
Ruchill Community Centre has been closed since 2020 when venues were shut at the start of the Covid lockdown.
While other venues reopened in the city, it was one that remained shut.
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Campaigners have fought to have it reopened but the latest update appears to have dashed their hopes.
(Image: newsquest)
The council, however, has now said it will cost too much to bring the building up to standard.
In an update to be considered by councillors next week, Laura Doherty, City Convener for Neighbourhood Services and Assets, set out the plans for the facility.
She said: 'Due to the scale of the works required, and the associated costs in comparison to the funding available to Glasgow City Council and Glasgow Life, there is now no prospect of the building re-opening to be managed by Glasgow Life.'
She gave the news that local people have been hoping not to hear.
She added: 'It is proposed that the building is formally closed and declared surplus to requirements.'
The options for the future include a community asset transfer, commercial sale or demolition.'
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A previous transfer proposal under the People Make Glasgow Communities programme has been paused for survey and due diligence work to be carried out.
The council will try to re-establish that proposal but if that fails, then it will look to sell the property or demolish it.
Councillor Doherty added: 'In order that the building does not deteriorate significantly and create a visual blight in the area, future options for the existing Ruchill CC will be considered by GCC, including lease via PMGC, Commercial disposal or demolition.'
The council said it would take around £1million to get the building up to reopening standard.
Reopening costs have rocketed from £250,000 in 2022
In 2022, a report said it needed roof repairs, boiler and cold-water distribution replacement, LED lighting upgrade, main hall floor repairs, grounds clearance and general decoration.
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