Following further investigative works by structural engineers into the presence of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) on the rear roof of Bearsden Community Hub, it has now been confirmed that the facility will remain closed until the roof is fully replaced.
While it was hoped that a phased completion of works to support the reopening of parts of the building could be accommodated, analysis by the structural engineers has now ruled this out. This means the Hub, Halls and carpark will continue to be closed for the duration of the works.
The design, building warrants and the tender for the construction, will be finalised between now and April 2024, after which a qualified roofing contractor will be appointed to carry out the works.
Commenting on this latest update, Council Leader Gordan Low said, “It had been hoped that it would be possible to have a partial opening of Bearsden Community Hub but unfortunately, we now know that the whole of the Hub must remain closed until the rear roof is replaced and all RAAC is removed. It is hoped a contractor can be in place for late spring/early summer to begin these works.
“Meanwhile, we have been working to establish alternative arrangements for the people of Bearsden and Milngavie to access the services usually carried out at the Hub. This includes interim Customer Services and Registration Services at Milngavie Enterprise Centre and extended opening hours at Westerton Library.
“We hope that by delivering these services locally during the closure period, disruption to our customers is significantly reduced. We once again thank everyone for their understanding and patience as we look to completing these essential works.”
Services that are normally delivered from the Hub will be provided elsewhere in Bearsden during the closure period and we can now confirm the following interim arrangements:
Customer Services
Face to face delivery will continue to be provided at the Council’s other three Community Hubs in Kirkintilloch, Lennoxtown and Bishopbriggs. In addition, temporary customer service delivery for Milngavie and Bearsden will be provided on an appointment only basis in Milngavie Enterprise Centre on Wednesday and Friday afternoon from 1pm to 4pm from Wednesday 28 February. Appointments can made in the usual way; by calling Customer Services on 0300 123 4510 or by emailing customerservices@eastdunbarton.gov.uk
Registration Services
This service will continue to be provided by telephone or online, however where there is a requirement for an in-person meeting this can take place at one of the Council’s other Community Hubs. In the event that this can only take place in the Milngavie or Bearsden area, it will be accommodated at Milngavie Enterprise Centre by appointment only, on either a Wednesday or Friday afternoon between the hours of 1pm and 4pm from Wednesday 28 February.
Library facilities
The opening hours at Westerton Library have been extended and will remain so during the closure period. The additional opening hours are Wednesday 10am until 8pm and Saturday 10am until 5pm.
Public toilet facilities
While the Hub is closed, public toilets can be accessed at St Andrew’s RC Church, 29 Roman Road, Bearsden, G61 2SN during the following times:
From Monday 4 February until Saturday 30 March
Monday to Friday 11am until 5pm Saturday 11am to 4pm.
Day Care Services (HSCP)
Various locations are currently being used to provide a range of specialist services previously delivered from Bearsden Hub. This will continue pending further discussion around opportunities for alternative service provision if required.
Access to archive materials
Archives can be accessed by appointment at the William Patrick Library, Kirkintilloch.
Parking
The car park at the Hub will remain fully closed until the completion of all works.