Elderpark welcomes new chapter for historic library
Glasgow Life – which runs cultural and leisure facilities for the council – will refurbish the A-listed building which sits in Elder Park and is an iconic Govan building of historic value.
Elderpark Housing has welcomed a new chapter in the life of a much-loved and historic library. Glasgow City Council has now given the go ahead for a £4 million restoration of Elderpark Library.
Glasgow Life – which runs cultural and leisure facilities for the council – will refurbish the A-listed building which sits in Elder Park and is an iconic Govan building of immense historic value.
It opened in 1903 and was gifted to Govan by Mrs Isabella Elder, wife of Govan industrialist John Elder, whom Elder Park is named after.
The housing association is a key partner in the re-purposing of the building to become a state-of-theart modern library and community hub.
Elderpark Community Centre – currently owned by Elderpark Housing – will move from its current location in Elderpark Street, not far from the library, to the revamped building.
This, in turn, is expected to deliver a housing boost as Elderpark Housing intends to build on the site of the existing, outdated community centre once it is demolished.
The plan is to create one, two and three-bedroom high-quality homes, which are much needed in the Govan community.
A spokesperson for Elderpark Housing welcomed the step forward for the library development and said it was a significant boost for the local community.
He said: “We are delighted with this news which will give a new lease of life to a much-loved building which has been an integral part of our community since 1903.
“We are proud to be playing our part in creating a bright new future for Elderpark Library which preserves our impressive built heritage while continuing to serve a vibrant community.
“Elderpark Housing also has exciting plans to build on the site of the existing community centre to create new homes – something which is essential to the regeneration of the Greater Govan community.”
Glasgow Life undertook a significant community consultation when drawing up plans for the library restoration, with major backing from local people for the plans.