share your views!

We need your input to understand the needs of the local community and how you would like to see the buildings used in years to come. Please fill in our online survey - your responses will help the project team develop new proposals for restoring and refurbishing the glasshouses and support future funding applications.

Glasshouses survey

Background

Queen's Park Glasshouses are a cherished landmark in Glasgow's southside. However, they now need significant structural repairs and upgrades to their facilities to improve accessibility and make them suitable for modern use.

Built in 1895 by the Glasgow Office of Public Works, the glasshouses were originally used exclusively for propagating plants, but later came to have public attractions including fishponds, tropical and temperate plants, cacti and an insect and reptile collection, some of which still remain there today. Today, the Glasshouses are partially open to the public and they are also currently used by Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) as a teaching facility for horticultural students.

Feasibility Study

Glasgow Building Preservation Trust is working with Glasgow City Council (GCC), the Scottish Rural College (SRUC), Queen's Park Neighbourhoods and Community Links Scotland on a feasibility study to find a future for the glasshouses. Alongside the community consultation, the study also includes an up-to-date review of the structural condition of the building, a business plan and design proposals.

Our work on this study is being funded by GCC, SRUC, the Architectural Heritage Fund and Glasgow City Heritage Trust.

FAQs

Where are the animals?

The animals have been taken out of the glasshouses and rehomed in order to prioritise their welfare. There are currently no plans to introduce new animals into the glasshouses.

Where is the Dome?

The glasshouses were temporarily closed to the public in 2017 due to concerns about the structural integrity of the dome above the South entrance. The dome was taken down, dismantled and put into storage in 2020. It is hoped that the dome can be repaired and be put back in place.

what's a feasibility study?

This is a study that considers all the factors that will affect a project's success. This includes the building's physical condition, an understanding of what the community in the area needs, and the costs and timescales involved. It is usually the first stage in the process of regenerating an old building. In a nutshell, it is a detailed list of pros and cons which helps decide whether a project is viable.

This study involves a range of specialists, including architects, engineers, business planners, and key stakeholders such as building owners and neighbouring organisations and groups. It also takes into account the views of local people who know the area best.