Drumchapel councillor says 'no' to art school rebuild cash

Paul Carey told how he has devastated at the fire but called for no council cash to go into recreating it.

The Drumchapel/Anniesland councillor railed against rampant child poverty and foodbank use across the city.

It follows the school’s director saying they’re not seeking government funding “at the moment” for a £100million rebuild.

Glasgow City Council, however, said nobody has asked for financial support from the local authority to rebuild the school.

Mr Carey said: “The council’s budget has been cut year upon year and, indeed, the administration has cut free swimming for kids and the elderly, increased nursery fees and struggles with road repairs.

“There are people who now depend on foodbanks in the city.”

Given the extent of Glasgow’s poverty the councillor said he was speaking out pre-empting calls for council money.

Other city councillors are sympathetic to his view and have agreed addressing poverty must come first.

It would likely have to be agreed by a full meeting of the council when recess if over, if it were to happen.

Mr Carey, a Labour councillor, added: “This is the second time this building has went on fire, only this time the estimated cost to rebuild the Glasgow School of Art is £100 million.

“If this is the case, then the money must come from the private sector.

“I defy any councillor in Glasgow City Council supporting having tax-payers paying towards rebuilding the Glasgow School of Art when we face really challenging issues in this City.”

Greens councillor Jon Molyneux insisted the Mack should be rebuilt and cited the school’s director saying insurance should cover the rebuild.

However, he said: “For now, the council’s focus must continue to be on supporting residents and businesses affected by the security cordon and helping the wider area to get back on its feet after these devastating fires.”

A spokesman from the SNP council said: “The council has not received any request for financial support.”