THE Salvation Army has launched ambitious plans to put the heart back into a Glasgow community.
THE Salvation Army has launched ambitious plans to put the heart back into a Glasgow community.
Commander Major Derek Tyrrell says as Govan begins its regeneration, his organisation will play a key role - by providing services for people.
It already proposes to build a charity shop, book shop and cafe at Govan Cross, run by full-time professional staff, and it is also hoped to redevelop its headquarters at Golspie Street to provide a range of facilities for everyone from kids to the unemployed and pensioners.
The grade B-listed building, which cannot be demolished, has repeatedly been a target for theft and vandalism over the years and the inside has become beyond repair.
But whether the building is redeveloped or they move to new premises, Major Tyrrell says it will create a support base.
It hopes to build a multi-purpose hall within the building, used during the day for work with the elderly such as dinner clubs and senior activities.
It would then become a sports hall in the evenings with climbing frames, indoor football and netball.
Other ideas that may be introduced include an after school club and an elderly programme which would help with everything from chiropody to form filling.
Major Tyrrell said: "The people of Govan are part of the heritage here as much as the buildings.
"Recently though, this fine community has lost its heart - we want to help find it again.
"We're not trying to build a come and get saved shop' or ram religion down your throat, but we are here to galvanise the community and provide people with something to do. We want people to stop looking down and look up for a change."
Originally from Hackney, London, Major Tyrrell has travelled the world with the Sally Army for the past 37 years.
He said: "We are first and foremost a church but we want people to know we're actively part of this community. It's about working in the town with mothers and toddlers, the elderly, teenagers, the unemployed.
"We don't want people wandering the streets all day, or sitting in a room by themselves all day. That's no way to live your life."
Celebrating the Citadel choir's 90th anniversary, a cappella group The King's Singers are performing at the Couper Institute on Clarkston Road in May.
Major Tyrrell added: "I think for the first time we're actually putting our money where our mouth is, and having events like this are a good way to increase our profile, upgrade the image of the Army as well as the area."
The Evening Times told last month how Glasgow City Council plans to create a conservation area in the heart of Govan which could bring in close to £1million heritage lottery grants and help restore the area's historic buildings.
