Last orders for ‘eyesore’ pub as work begins
COMMUNITY leaders have told of their joy after an “eyesore” Springburn pub was finally given its last orders.
Work will begin today to tear down the Talisman, bringing an end to years of wrangling between its owner and locals.
The Balgrayhill Road building has been derelict for more than two decades and the move comes shortly after council officers agreed to explore a compulsory purchase order on the land.
Springburn/Robroyston councillor Graham Campbell said: “The Talisman was the very symbol of total neglect and lack of respect for the residents of Balgrayhill Road having to look at that monstrosity all this time.
“Getting the Talisman down is only the first step in the recovery of our community. I’m so excited that the pressure we put on the owners, working alongside locals these last six years, has finally paid off. The Talisman is coming down as promised, and it’s about time.”
Councillor Christina Cannon, of the same ward, added: “Local residents were adamant the Talisman had to go after being neglected for decades. We listened and we acted. The demolition of The talisman is the first step in changing the area.”
Anne Mclaughlin, MP for Glasgow North East, said: “We’ve been fighting alongside the community for so many years to get this eyesore down so this is an emotional day.
“The reason we persisted is because of the message it gave to local residents – that they didn’t matter. That sort of attitude affects people’s self-esteem.”
The pub has endured a long and chequered history with talks repeatedly stalling between the local authority and its current owner, Ameen Mirza.
In November last year, council officers opened discussions over purchasing the land if pleas to tear down the building continued to be ignored. However, in December, it was revealed the owner had committed to carrying out the work and a demolition warrant had been granted.
Bob Dorris, MSP for Springburn and Maryhill, said: “This is only the start of what I believe will be much wider community-led regeneration of Springburn.”
Councillor Ruari Kelly, chair of the Glasgow City Council’s contracts and property committee, said: “I am determined that this will act as a catalyst to address other sites where private owners think they can force communities to live with such buildings while the council sits powerless to act.”
The Glasgow Times made attempts to contact Mr Mirza for comment.