Community now has to rethink best way forward after devastating funding blow

One of Glasgow’s most iconic community hubs is facing a funding crisis.

Govanhill Baths, in the city’s southside, was hoping for £2.1 million government funding to begin development work on the site this year.

That now hangs in the balance after the charity behind the development was snubbed by the Scottish Government's Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (RCGF).

It was to form part of a £6.1million plan to transform the Edwardian building into a fitness and wellbeing centre.

The baths is currently used as a venue for a host of diffferent community events, including theatre productions.

A spokesman for the Govanhill Baths Community Trust (GBCT) said: "This news is devastating, it jeopardises the whole project and will have a demoralising effect on a community that has fought and worked so hard for 17 years to bring this vital community asset back to life.

"The trustees will be seeking answers on behalf of the shareholders and the people of Govanhill as to why our community has been ignored yet again.”

Locals fought tirelessly to retain the B-listed building after it was shut by Glasgow City Council in 2001.

A community shares scheme recently drew 600 people who bought shares in the baths.

Members of GBCT last week met with first minister Nicola Sturgeon, who is MSP for the area, to ask for her support.

A spokeswoman for Sturgeon said: "Nicola Sturgeon has met with members of the Govanhill Baths Board in her capacity as local MSP.

"She has assured them of her continued support and is seeking feedback on why the decision was made as well as exploring further avenues of support."