The public deserve clarity on future of Glasgow's People's Palace
Scottish Green MSP for Glasgow, Iris Duane, has written to the Scottish Government calling for urgent clarity on whether ministers will provide funding to secure the reopening and long-term future of the People’s Palace in Glasgow.
Iris has warned that the future of the much-loved cultural institution cannot be left to chance, after the Scottish Government confirmed only that it would use its convening powers to bring partners together.
In a letter to the Minister for Business and Fair Work, Ms Duane said the Scottish Government must be clear about whether it is prepared to contribute funding as part of a wider package, and what it will do if a collaborative funding partner cannot be found.
Iris said: “The People’s Palace is a beloved Glasgow institution and an irreplaceable part of the city’s cultural and working-class history.
“It is welcome that the Scottish Government recognises its importance, but warm words and convening powers are not enough. These powers could and should have been used at any point during the long period of closure.
“People in Glasgow deserve to know whether the reopening of the People’s Palace is dependent on a funding partner being found, or whether the Scottish Government is prepared to step in and help secure its future.
“This cannot be allowed to come down to a coin toss. The continued closure of such an important institution is a real loss for Glasgow, and our communities need clarity on what practical support ministers are willing to provide.
“Without a clear commitment, we risk continuing to gamble away Glasgow’s built heritage. The Scottish Government must set out whether funding will be forthcoming, and whether it will shoulder the cost if no collaborative partner can be found.”