About the Gartcosh Links Centre
A community-owned facility, run by and for the people of Gartcosh.
Our Story
The Gartcosh Links Centre has been at the heart of our village for decades — a place where birthdays are celebrated, community groups meet, and neighbours become friends. When the future of the building came under threat, local residents refused to let it slip away.
The Gartcosh Development Trust was formed to secure the centre for community use and to ensure it remains a vibrant, welcoming space for generations to come. We are a registered charity governed by local trustees, operating transparently and solely for public benefit.
Our vision is simple: a thriving, sustainable community hub that serves everyone in Gartcosh — from toddler groups and sports clubs to weddings, funerals, and everything in between.
Community Asset Transfer
A Community Asset Transfer (CAT) is the process by which ownership or management of publicly owned land or buildings is transferred to a community organisation — in our case, the Gartcosh Development Trust.
We are working closely with North Lanarkshire Council to complete this transfer. The process ensures that the Links Centre remains in community hands, protected from sale for private development, and governed by people who live here.
Primary School: GDT is also pursuing a Community Asset Transfer for the former Gartcosh Primary School building. This is a separate project, not currently available for booking through this site. Learn more on the Gartcosh Development Trust website.
Community Control
Decisions about the building are made by local trustees, not distant officials.
Protected for Public Use
Asset transfer agreements include legal safeguards preventing future sale.
Sustainable Funding
Hire income, grants, and donations keep the centre viable without relying solely on council budgets.
Local Accountability
Trustees are residents who must report back to the community and stand for re-election.
Key Milestones
- 2019
Gartcosh Development Trust Formed
Established by local residents at the end of 2019, building on community surveys by the Gartcosh Tenants and Residents Association.
- 2020–22
Dormant During Pandemic
The Trust was made dormant while it was not possible to actively engage with the community and fundraise.
- 2023
Community Interest Re-formed
Local residents came together to save the Links Centre from closure and reactivate the Development Trust.
- 2024
Asset Transfer Application
Formal Community Asset Transfer application submitted to North Lanarkshire Council for the Links Centre.
- 2025
Interim Management & Local Place Plan
Began operating the centre under a Temporary Operating Licence. The Gartcosh Local Place Plan was registered with North Lanarkshire Council.
- 2025
Primary School Feasibility Study
Fundraising launched for a feasibility study to support a Community Asset Transfer application for the former Gartcosh Primary School.
- 2027
Full Asset Transfer Target
Target date for completion of the Community Asset Transfer for the Links Centre.
How to Support Us
The Links Centre depends on community backing. Here are three ways you can help keep it thriving.
Volunteer
Help with events, maintenance, or administration. We need people with all kinds of skills and availability.
Donate
Every contribution helps us maintain the building, improve facilities, and keep hire rates affordable.
Spread the Word
Tell neighbours, share our posts, and help us build a stronger, more connected Gartcosh.
Board of Trustees
The Gartcosh Development Trust is governed by a board of volunteer trustees elected from the local community. They oversee finances, set strategy, and ensure the centre serves the public good.
Trustee profiles will be added here soon.
If you are interested in joining the board, please contact us.