Question reference: S6W-00621
- Asked by: Paul Sweeney, MSP for Glasgow, Scottish Labour
- Date lodged: 14 June 2021
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Current status: Answered by Jenny Gilruth on 12 July 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what steps Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is taking to save the former Sir John Maxwell School building in Pollokshaws from dereliction and potential demolition; what engagement HES has had or is having with (a) Glasgow City Council and its agency City Property LLP and (b) the Sir John Maxwell School Trust to support the Trust's plans to restore and convert the building, and, to allow it to be eligible for grants that could help finance any development deficit, what its position is on using the Scottish Ministers' discretionary powers to have the building listed.
Answer
The Scottish Government understands that Historic Environment Scotland (HES) wrote directly to Mr Sweeney on 24 June 2021.
HES assessed this property in 2017, and it was found to not meet the criteria for listing at that time as it was not a notable example of its building type and its setting had been altered. HES held subsequent discussions with the Sir John Stirling Maxwell Trust and Glasgow City Heritage Trust during 2020 regarding the best ways to retain and reuse the building.
As Scotland's lead public body for built heritage Historic Environment Scotland (HES) investigates, cares for and promotes Scotland’s historic environment. Part of those duties is responsibility for designating listed buildings. The role of Scottish Ministers in designations largely relates to strategic oversight in matters of national importance. It should be noted that Minsters' powers are used sparingly as HES retains the considerable experience and expertise which is more appropriate to assess applications on a case-by-case basis.