A popular community hub is set to remain closed following the discovery of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) in the facility.

East Dunbartonshire Council has said it follows further investigation works by structural engineers into RAAC on the rear of the Bearsden Community Hub.

We previously reported that the building shut down late last year following the discovery.

Initially, the local authority says it was hoped that a phased completion of works to support the reopening of parts of the building could be accommodated, however, engineers have now ruled it out.

Due to this, the centre, halls, and carpark will continue to remain closed for the duration of the works.

The design, building warrants, and the tender for construction, will be finalised between now and April 2024.

Following that, a contractor will be appointed to carry out the works.

East Dunbartonshire 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.

Here are the 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 afternoons from 1pm to 4pm from Wednesday, February 28.

  • 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 afternoons between the hours of 1pm and 4pm from Wednesday, February 28.

  • 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 

Options for the provision of temporary public toilets within the town centre remain under consideration.

Several solutions continue to be explored and it is hoped a preferred solution will be identified before the end of this month.

  • Day Care Services

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 

Archive materials currently stored within the Hub will be retained on site with limited access to be provided only in exception circumstances.

  • Parking 

The car park at the Hub will remain fully closed until the completion of all works.