New operator identified for Commonwealth Games legacy hub in Glasgow's East End

Talks will begin with Rockvilla CIC over a lease for office, nursery and theatre space at Dalmarnock Legacy Hub — opened in 2015 by football legend Kenny Dalglish and then council leader Frank McAveety — if councillors approve the plan on Thursday.

The £3.5m hub on Springfield Road was initially managed by the People’s Development Trust, but the organisation went into administration in January 2019 and it was purchased by Glasgow City Council for £1.

A doctor’s surgery, dentist and pharmacists have continued to operate from the venue, and would remain tenants of the council if the Rockvilla lease is granted.

Rockvilla, a community interest company, has experience in community theatre, officials have reported. The firm says it delivers a range of events across the musical, cultural and sports sectors for the people of Dalmarnock, Bridgeton and Parkhead.

Cllr Ruairi Kelly, the council’s convener for neighbourhood assets, said: “The mismanagement and closure of the previous Dalmarnock Hub was a huge loss to the local community and hopefully this will be a major step on the way to bringing this fantastic facility back to life and seeing a range of services being offered to local people.

“Stepping in to take over this asset allowed us to secure a building that has tremendous potential to benefit Dalmarnock and the surrounding areas, and working with community organisations means we can now look forward to its return to productive use.”

The council held consultation on the future of the building, and officials have reported a preference for an external operator which can “ensure inward investment and socio-economic development” through “a mix of commercial and community use”.

They believe a lease to Rockvilla CIC would “provide the opportunity to reinvigorate the hub and allow it to serve the community” while also alleviating the cost to the council, including non-domestic rates and utility charges.

Rent for the building is expected to be more in line with the open rental market, to generate income for the council, rather than a concessionary level, which a CIC would normally qualify for. This is due to the semi-commercial operating model proposed.

It is expected the offices and nursery will “attract commercial interest”. The new operator would be expected to encourage the local community to visit the venue.