Developers plan to bulldoze historic site

They are appealing to East Dunbartonshire Council to place a preservation order on the former Larkfield Mental Health Resource Centre.

The council, in conjunction with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, who own the building, put it up for sale, along with adjacent land owned by both of them, as part of a joint venture.

It is now under offer and Muir Homes/Construction wants to tear down the building which dates back to 1874 and was the gatehouse to the former Woodilee Hospital.

In its place, the company want to erect a new two-storey pub and restaurant with car park at the rear.

On the adjacent 2.5698 acres of land, at Initiative Road and Woodilee Road, they 
propose to build nine houses.

One resident told the Herald: “This historic building survived two World Wars.

“Somehow it didn’t get 
listed. I’ve spoken to Historic Scotland and they told me a way to protect it is to ask for the 
council to put a preservation order on it. That’s what we are calling on the council to do.

“Most people are delighted something is happening with the building but not that it is to be demolished.”

After Woodilee Hospital closed in the 70s, the Larkfield building became a health 
centre until it was abandoned by the NHS 10 years ago. Since then, the building’s condition has deteriorated.

A spokesperson for NHSGG&C said they had agreed with the council they would sell the building as part of a joint venture with them.

Thomas Glen, Depute Chief Executive of Place, Neighbourhood and Corporate Assets, said: “The developers’ proposal includes the demolition of Larkfield Lodge, but I stress this is a live planning application and yet to be determined. The historical status of the building is a material consideration and, along with other material matters, will be taken into account by the case officer in the assessment of the application.”