Langside library garden in Glasgow to be revamped using cash from flat developers

The garden of a Glasgow Southside library is set to undergo a revamp funded by cash from developers building in the area.

Langside’s B-listed library is currently being refurbished and the volunteer-run garden has been taken over by contractors.

Almost £175,000 of developer contributions could be used to “reinstate and enhance” the garden once the library project is complete.

Councillors will consider the proposal later this week. When the library closed in late 2024, Glasgow Life, the council’s culture and leisure arm, said it was expected to reopen in winter 2026/27.

According to a council report ahead of Thursday’s meeting, the library revamp is now scheduled to continue until spring next year.

It adds the closure of the garden, which was maintained by the Friends of Langside Library Gardens volunteer group, has represented “a direct loss of amenity and community function”.

“The proposal will fully reinstate and enhance the garden post-construction, ensuring no net loss of amenity while delivering an uplift in quality, accessibility and usability,” the report continues.

Work to the garden is set to include “improved circulation through new resin-bound and granite paths” as well as “steps and defined edges to provide safe, durable and inclusive access”.

“A series of seating and informal gathering spaces will be integrated throughout the garden, alongside enhanced planting including trees and shrubs to support biodiversity and the reinstatement of community garden use,” the report adds.

The garden is closed as it was “identified as the least disruptive location for contractor site accommodation and construction operations” due to “significant site constraints, including limited surrounding road capacity, bus lanes and residential parking”.

The total scheme is expected to cost nearly £227,000, with Glasgow Life providing around £87,000. Almost £35,000 of the £175,000 from developer contributions would go towards revenue costs. This money has been provided by developers, working on projects in the Langside ward, for use on open and green spaces. 

Contributions can be secured to mitigate the impact of a development on an area, such as upgrades to schools, roads or parks.