Govan’s long-running regeneration is set to enter a significant new phase following the approval of almost £3 million in heritage funding to support a five-year programme of restoration and renewal projects across the area.
Glasgow City Council has formally accepted funding awards from the National Heritage Lottery Fund (NHLF) and Historic Environment Scotland (HES), each contributing £1.49 million towards the Govan Heritage programme, which will run from 2026 to 2031.
The wider programme has a total budget of £5.684 million. In addition to the NHLF and HES contributions, Glasgow City Council will provide £1.525 million through existing funding streams, with a further £1.179 million expected from third-party contributions, subject to participation from property owners.
Building on recent transformation
The latest investment builds on a series of recent regeneration successes in Govan, including Townscape Heritage Initiatives that have delivered building repairs, shopfront improvements and public realm upgrades. Major infrastructure and placemaking projects — such as the Govan-Partick Bridge and the new park at the historic Graving Docks — have already begun to reshape the area.
The new programme aims to take a more holistic, “whole place” approach, linking heritage-led investment with wider regeneration activity, community development and economic growth.
Restoring heritage, unlocking opportunity
At its core, the Govan Heritage programme is designed to bring underused and at-risk historic buildings back into active use, while improving the long-term sustainability of the area’s built environment.
Key objectives include:
- supporting the reuse of vacant and endangered buildings through targeted grants
- strengthening community ownership and partnership working
- prioritising fabric-first repairs to protect historic structures
- enhancing the area’s appeal as a destination for visitors and investors
- building local skills and capacity to maintain Govan’s heritage assets
Over the next five years, a number of high-profile projects are expected to move forward. These include the revival of the Pumphouse at the Graving Docks, restoration work at Brechin’s Bar, improvements to several local churches, and major investment in landmark sites such as the former Lyceum Cinema and the Fairfield Annexe.
Lyceum Cinema a focal point for renewal
Among the most prominent projects is the redevelopment of the former Lyceum Cinema, which has stood vacant for around two decades. Identified as a priority by the local community, the building is seen as a key opportunity to revitalise Govan town centre.
A feasibility study led by Glasgow Building Preservation Trust has demonstrated that the site could be successfully redeveloped, though significant public investment will be required due to its current condition.
As well as direct funding, the heritage programme will provide ongoing support and guidance to local stakeholders working to bring the building back into use, with the aim of maximising its long-term social and economic impact.
Reimagining the Graving Docks
The programme will also build on recent investment at the Govan Graving Docks, where a new riverside park has already been created through the Vacant Derelict Land Investment Programme.
Future plans include restoring the historic Pumphouse and supporting wider ambitions to bring the docks back into active use. This includes the development of new walking and cycling routes linking Pacific Quay to the Govan-Partick Bridge, transforming the site into a vibrant destination for both residents and visitors.
Vacant for nearly 40 years, the docks are now seen as a major opportunity to reconnect Govan with the Clyde waterfront.
Skills, jobs and community benefit
Alongside physical restoration, the programme will deliver a Heritage Activity and Skills Plan aimed at engaging local people and organisations.
This will include training opportunities in heritage construction, helping to build a skilled workforce while opening new career pathways. The initiative is also intended to strengthen community pride and deepen local involvement in the stewardship of Govan’s historic environment.
A continuing transformation
George Gillespie, Executive Director for Neighbourhoods, Regeneration and Sustainability at Glasgow City Council, said the programme would build on the momentum already established in the area.
“Heritage-based regeneration projects have already contributed significantly — alongside new housing and the Govan-Partick Bridge — to the transformation of Govan in recent years,” he said.
“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.”
Looking ahead
By focusing investment on heritage assets with strong social and economic potential, the Govan Heritage programme aims not only to preserve the past, but to secure a more sustainable and prosperous future for the area.
With improved connectivity, renewed landmarks and growing community involvement, Govan’s next chapter appears set to be shaped as much by its history as by its ambition.
#ModernScot
