Almost £3 million of new funding from the National Heritage Lottery Fund (NHLF) and Historic Environment Scotland (HES) will support the next stage of Govan's regeneration through a five-year programme of heritage projects, following approval by a Glasgow City Council committee.

Both NHLF and HES have awarded £1.49 million to the Govan Heritage programme for 2026–2031. The overall budget is £5.684 million, with £1.525 million from Glasgow City Council’s existing funding streams and £1.179 million anticipated from third-party contributions, subject to owner participation.

The programme builds on recent Townscape Heritage Initiatives in Govan, which have delivered building repairs, improvements to public spaces and historic shopfronts, and wider architectural restoration. These efforts complement major investments such as the Govan-Partick Bridge and the new park at the historic Govan Graving Docks.

Aims include place-based renewal that connects project investment to wider regeneration and community development; unlocking underused and at-risk heritage buildings through targeted grants, community ownership and partnership working; prioritising a fabric-first approach to improve the resilience of built heritage; enhancing the business case for repairs and maintenance by improving the wider environment and promoting Govan as a destination; and strengthening local capacity to manage and maintain the area’s heritage.

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Planned projects over the next five years feature the revival of the Pumphouse at the Graving Docks and works at Brechin's Bar, a number of local churches, the former Lyceum cinema and the Fairfield Annexe.

Developed with local residents and stakeholders, the proposals address long-standing opportunities and risks, with some sites lying vacant for decades. Restoring prominent heritage buildings and places is seen as central to attracting visitors and improving quality of life for the community.

A Heritage Activity and Skills Plan will also be delivered, engaging local people and organisations to maximise heritage and construction opportunities, build careers in the heritage sector and foster pride in Govan's exceptional built environment.

Beyond conservation and repair, the programme supports wider regeneration by prioritising projects with strong social and economic outcomes. These include Govan Old Church, home to a remarkable collection of early medieval sculpture and developing as a visitor destination linked to the Riverside Museum, and the former Lyceum Cinema, which could become a major town centre attraction.

The Lyceum emerged as a community priority during consultation for the grant application. With footfall boosted by the new bridge, a feasibility study by Glasgow Building Preservation Trust found the redeveloped building could operate successfully. However, after 20 years of vacancy and due to its current condition, substantial public investment will be required. Alongside direct funding, the programme will provide guidance and support to local partners to bring the Lyceum back into use and maximise community benefits.