A NEW civic square could be created in the heart of Shawlands.

The city council is consulting local people and businesses on plans for a new public area to be developed on land in front of Langside Hall.

It is hoped the square could become the heart of the emerging cultural quarter in Shawlands.

In 2012, the council, along with Shawlands and Strathbungo community council and Shawlands business association, launched the Shawlands town centre plan.

The £3.3million programme of improvements has included an outdoor lighting project, the designation of Shawlands Cross as a conservation area, and the first phase of footway and lighting improvements on Kilmarnock Road.

Council bosses say the area earmarked for the new civic square is close to not only Langside Hall but also the Shed.

The nightspot has a long track record of club nights, live theatre, dance and craft events.

Other venues in the area include Sweeney's, an attraction for new songwriters and Glad Cafe, a destination for experimental musicians, art and discussion.

A council spokesman said a well-designed space could bring Queens Park into the heart of Shawlands town centre and potentially attract more visitors.

It could also act as a stopping point to and from the city centre for people on their way to Hampden.

Archie Graham, chairman of the Shawlands Town Centre Action Plan executive board, said: "The work done by the council and our partners in the Shawlands Town Centre Action Plan over the past couple of years has helped to maintain Shawlands' position as one of the key retail and cultural destinations in Glasgow.

"The proposal for a civic square has the potential to make the area even more attractive to residents, businesses, visitors and investors."

Events at which people can consider the plan and give their opinions are being held in Langside Hall from 10am until 8pm on September 24 and between 10am and 6pm on October 4.

Mr Graham added: "I would ask that everyone with a stake in the future of Shawlands comes to these events to find out more and share their views."

To find out more about the civic square plan go to www.glasgow.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=13359

vivienne.nicoll@eveningtimes.co.uk