Storm brewing over plans for bowling club’s future
A WEST End community group is preparing to confront developers over plans to take over a local bowling club.
The Corunna Bowling Club, a key feature of the St Vincent Crescent Conservation Area, has been earmarked by developers who are now preparing to submit an official planning application to transform the club.
Yorkhill and Kelvingrove Community Council have been attempting to block plans for a number of months in order to protect the much-loved community asset.
Following on from a protest in March, the group are preparing to quiz architectural firm Jewitt and Wilkie at a public meeting this week.
The historical property, which was formed as far back as 1859, has reportedly been put up for sale by the club owners for unknown reasons.
Councillors from the Green Party, Labour and SNP, including MSP Sandra White, who vowed to raise the issue with the Scottish Parliament if it helps secure a community use for the site, have all backed a campaign to ensure the space stays in the hands of the community.
Lee Grant, spokesman for Yorkhill and Kelvingrove Community Council, said that they are now in contact with Historic Environment Scotland, New Glasgow Society and the Scottish Civic Trust regarding the matter.
He added: “Residents want to se- cure this vital green space for all members of our community with a focus on the older and younger members in the form of a community centre offering kids activities, evening classes, and community facilities.
“The green space could be used as a lawn tennis court or basketball court.
“Residents are keen that the site be available to our wider community including Anderston and Yorkhill.
“This part of the city would benefit from a new community centre which would service the growing need for facilities as new families are attracted to our area.”
According to the group, one resident has pledged to buy the club and turn it into a tennis academy.
Councillor for Anderston and City, Angus Millar, said that even in the early stages of the process there is “overwhelming” community opposition to the potential development.
He added: “The loss of designated green space in the area would be keenly felt by residents, and its destruction would be completely contrary to the character of the local conservation area, of which it is a key part.
“Given the desire locally for more community facilities, there are clearly so many better options for the site than building over it.”
The public are invited to a community consultation event at Corunna Bowling Club, 35 St Vincent Crescent tomorrow between 1pm and 7pm. Corunna Bowling Club was not available for comment.