A SCOUT group are celebrating after their historic base has been saved from demolition.

The 44th Scout Group, based in Kelvindale, feared for their future after a building firm planned to demolish their hall.

Mactaggart and Mickel were planning to develop on the Ripon Drive site which they own, possibly using it for new housing.

The plans prompted a campaign by local politicians, reaching as far as Westminster, in a bid to save the site. 

Now the contractors have come to an agreement with the Scout group, granting them a two-year licence to occupy the facility, securing their future.

Welcoming the news, 44th Scout group chairman Michael McGuinness said: " Following a constructive meeting with land owners Mactaggart and Mickel (MacMic), the 44th Scout Committee and representatives from the Scout Association, MacMic have agreed to provide us with a two year licence to occupy the site, securing the immediate future for the Hall.

"They have committed that during the two years they will work in partnership with us to secure a long-term future for Scouting in Kelvindale.

"I would like to thank MacMic for listening to the community in Kelvindale and responding positively."

SNP MP for Glasgow North Patrick Grady said: "This news will be a relief to the Scouts and the other users of the site, and is a tribute to the tenacious efforts of the local community to save the Kelvindale Scout Hall.

"Mactaggart & Mickel have done the right thing by listening to community opinion, and committing to a long-term future for Scouting in the area, while providing certainty for the Hall over the next two years.

"I'll continue to work with the user groups, the local community, and my colleagues Bob Doris MSP, Carol Monaghan MP and Councillor Kenny McLean, to make sure Kelvindale has the facilities that are so valued by residents in the immediate area and beyond."

Craig Ormond, Director of Mactaggart & Mickel Homes said: "Following discussion with the 44th Scout Group, we have agreed to put in place a two year licence at Ripon Drive and we look forward to working with them to explore all options for the longer term future of scouting in Kelvindale."