WORK to remove potentially dangerous concrete from a popular community hub is set to get underway this month – more than a year after it first closed.

Bearsden Community Hub was shut down in October 2023 after reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) was discovered in the roof structure at the rear of the building.

RAAC is a lightweight, ‘bubbly’ form of concrete commonly used in construction. The material is much weaker than traditional concrete and is prone to structural failure.

The Hub has been closed for more than a yearThe Hub has been closed for more than a year (Image: Newsquest staff)

In July, East Dunbartonshire Council (EDC), which runs the facility, confirmed that the roof at the back of the Hub building would need to be replaced in full.

Signs recently appeared outside of the Drymen Road venue stating that work to remove RAAC panels and install a new roof structure will begin in November.

During this time the Hub, halls, and its parking facilities will remain closed to the public.

(Image: Newsquest staff)


READ NEXT: Council provides update on closure of popular community hub


EDC has said that the project is due to be completed by August 2025.

Residents are being advised that details for the Hub’s reopening date will be revealed closer to the time.

The sign reads: “Following investigations in October 2023, reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) was discovered in the roof structure at the rear of Bearsden Hub.

“As a result, the Hub has been closed to allow structural investigations and design works to be carried out.

“The design process is now complete and works to remove RAAC panels and install the new roof structure are due to commence by November 2024.

“During this time, the Hub will remain closed to allow works to be safely completed. The project will be complete by August 2025 with details for the reopening of the Hub to the public communicated close to the time.”

Signs have appeared outside of the facilitySigns have appeared outside of the facility (Image: Newsquest staff)

The local authority has confirmed that this is the only East Dunbartonshire Council building that contains RAAC.

Whilst work is ongoing various services – including Bearsden Library - that had operated within the Hub have been moved elsewhere.

(Image: Newsquest staff)


READ NEXT: Businesses hit out over 'lack of support' during demolition of India Buildings


Customer services will be available on an appointment-only basis in the Milngavie Enterprise Centre. This service will run on Wednesday and Friday afternoons from 1pm to 4pm.

Appointments can be made by calling 0300 123 4510 or by emailing customerservices@eastdunbarton.gov.uk.

Registration services will be provided online HERE or by phoning 0300 123 4510.

Meanwhile, library facilities will be available from nearby Westerton Library which has extended its opening hours.

(Image: Newsquest staff)

When is the library open?

  • Monday: 1pm to 4.30pm and 5pm to 8pm.
  • Tuesday: 10am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 5pm.
  • Wednesday: 10am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 8pm.
  • Thursday: 10am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 5pm.
  • Friday: 10am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 5pm.
  • Saturday: 10am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 5pm.

The library is closed on Sundays.

Public toilets can be accessed at St Andrew’s Roman Catholic Church on Roman Road. The church is open Monday to Friday from 11am to 5pm.

It is also open from 11am to 4pm on Saturdays.