Warm hubs will stay open for another

COUNCIL buildings used as Welcome Places to help people stay warm as energy bills rocket are to be extended for a further month.

The Welcome Places network of around 30 council buildings, including libraries and community centres that are offering activities and advice as well as heat, was funded until the end of February.

But it has been decided to find the cash to allow them to open throughout March in recognition that it can sometimes be a very cold month with extreme winter weather.

Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council, revealed the plan writing in the Glasgow Times today.

She said: “These are hugely difficult months in the most challenging circumstances many of our citizens have experienced for decades. And even though we experienced those record sub- zero temperatures before Christmas, the reality is that winter has barely begun.

“It had been our intention to ensure that Welcome Places operated throughout January and February. But I’m glad that in recent days we’ve secured the resources to extend them until the end of March.”

Glasgow Life with Glasgow City Council designated 13 community centres, nine libraries and one golf pavilion across the city as Welcome Places.

The council said designated Welcome Places will also include welfare and refreshments, and the use of Wi- Fi and PCs in libraries, and will offer a “welcoming sanctuary” and heated spot for residents to spend some time in and save money.

The list of welcome places is below, all are open Monday to Friday. The libraries are also open on Saturdays 10am to 5pm. All are closed on Sunday. - Bridgeton Library

- Barlanark Community Centre - Barmulloch Residents Centre - Bridgeton Library

- Castlemilk Community Centre - Cranhill Community Centre - Drumchapel Library

- Easterhouse Library @ The Bridge Finn’s Place

- Govanhill Community Centre - Kingsway Community Connections