Parts of the former Haghill Primary School could be saved from demolition after crisis talks on the future of the historic building.
The roof of the B-listed school, which has been derelict since 2004, collapsed earlier in the year leading to City Property recommending that it be fully demolished without delay.
Building standards officers have deemed it to be in a dangerous condition and say it could suffer further collapse if action isn't taken.
However, a further survey of the building, which is on the Buildings at Risk register, has concluded that elements of it could be saved and used in any developments on the site in the future.
Elements including the entrance arches on the east and west sides could be salvaged and the frontage could be brought down to a lower level with the decorative gable on the top end salvaged and reassembled.
It was also agreed that the janitor’s house on-site should be saved rather than demolished along with the railings and outer perimeter walls. The findings have been welcomed by heritage experts.
Paul Sweeney MSP said: “The former Haghill Primary School and Schoolhouse on Marwick Street is one of the finest pieces of Edwardian architecture in the East End of Glasgow. Built in 1904, it is tragic to see it left in such a state of disrepair.
“As a building, it has many quirks, from the traditional Glasgow Public School Board carvings to inscriptions of Mozart and Newton on the entrance arches. It’s a building of phenomenal history and encapsulates much of what is loved about Glasgow, and we are determined to see as much as possible restored
“Housing is undoubtedly an issue in Glasgow, and I know that people will say that this could be easily demolished and new flats erected. Our desire is to see that increase in housing by developing this site, but to see it done in a way that fits seamlessly with the surrounding areas, adding to the community rather than fighting against it.
“Glasgow’s architecture is a thing of beauty and is revered across the world. As Glaswegians, we are proud of our Victorian and Edwardian era tenements with tens of thousands of people across the city still calling them home. If we’re able to save sections of the building and have them restored in a way that keeps that heritage while providing new homes, it will be a big victory for the city.”
Councillor for the Haghill area, Allan Casey has expressed his disappointment at the building being left to fall into disrepair.
Posting on social media, he said: "This building should never have been allowed to get into this condition and it is extremely disappointing that it was effectively abandoned in 2004 with no plan and has been a blight on the local community ever since.
"Whilst the demolition of the school is extremely disappointing it will pave the way for the opportunity for much needed social housing to be built on the site and dialogue has started with a local RSL to look at social housing for the cleared site."
