Govan heritage projects given £3m backing in regeneration plan

A former cinema, various churches and the remains of a graving dock are among heritage projects in Glasgow's Govan area set to benefit from a £3m funding boost.

Proposals for the future could see the former Lyceum cinema - which dates to the 1930s - redeveloped into "a major attraction" to draw visitors to the area.

The plans were revealed after the National Heritage Lottery Fund (NHLF) and Historic Environment Scotland (HES) each awarded £1.49m to the Govan Heritage programme, spread over five years.

The programme has previously carried out building and architectural repairs in the region, along with projects like the new Govan to Partick bridge and a new park.

The Lyceum has been vacant for about 20 years, with city councillors recently told that "significant investment from public funders" will be required to help rejuvenate it.

However a study by the Glasgow Building Preservation Trust also found that the old cinema could be restored into a venue that would offer a "major opportunity to support the renewal of Govan town centre", taking advantage of extra footfall from the new bridge.

A consultation with the local community found the cinema was considered a key priority by them.

Other heritage projects to be delivered in Govan over the five-year period include restoring the Pumphouse at the Graving Docks - where work is already ongoing to turn the derelict site into a riverside destination.

The historic Brechin's Bar, several churches and shipyard building the Fairfield Annexe are also listed.

The budget for the overall programme is £5.684m, with the remaining funding coming from Glasgow City Council (£1.525m) through existing funding sources, and another £1.179m from third party contributions.

Proposals for these projects have been developed with input from local people, with an aim to transform historic buildings into assets that can benefit the entire Govan area.

A Heritage Activity and Skills Plan will also be delivered as part of the project, intending to help locals develop careers in the heritage construction sector and also increase community pride.

George Gillespie, the executive director for Neighbourhoods, Regeneration and Sustainability at Glasgow City Council, said: "Heritage-based regeneration projects have already contributed significantly - alongside new housing and the Govan-Partick Bridge - to the transformation of Govan in recent years.

"The projects over the next five years will continue this transformation, bringing new life to some of the fantastic heritage buildings and spaces found in this part of the city."