GLASGOW'S iconic People's Palace will finally reopen to the public this week, it has been confirmed.
The attraction, which has been shut since the start of the pandemic, is to open from Wednesday in a victory for campaigners who had previously raised concerns about the venue's future.
It has repeatedly been left off Glasgow Life's list of reopening locations with the council's arm's-length body citing the financial impact of Covid-19 as the reason.
READ MORE: Save our Venues: Glasgow's deprived areas 'left with nothing' amid closures
But today leisure bosses have confirmed the venue will open this week, although the future of around 90 sports hubs and libraries in the city remains uncertain.
Councillor David McDonald, chair of Glasgow Life and depute leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “We know how popular the People’s Palace is so it’s great we are almost ready to reopen and welcome people back.
"On Wednesday the museum will be alive with visitors but we are still operating in a pandemic and that has required some changes and not all displays will be open.
"We know how keen people are to return to what for many is their favourite museum in Glasgow, but we must ensure everyone feels safe and confident to come inside again."
The People’s Palace will reopen every Wednesday and Thursday initially, from 10am-5pm.
Visitors need to pre-book a free ticket online for a specific date and time. Entry to the museum remains free.
Booking tickets in advance helps the museum team to manage visitor numbers, reduce queues and maintain physical distancing.
Cllr McDonald added: "Visiting museums has a positive effect on our overall wellbeing and reopening another of the city’s most popular museums will provide further free access to art and culture for everyone, especially during school holidays.”
The Glasgow Times launched our Save Our Venues campaign earlier this year in a bid to protect the future of Glasgow Life-run hubs in the city.
READ MORE: Save Our Venues: Union bosses warn Glasgow Life cuts could 'kill off community services'
Many - including Maryhill Library - remain closed for he time being, with leisure bosses warning they will need to raise more cash before reopening any hub not on the existing list.
Free tickets will be available to book from today at www.glasgowmuseums.com and will be released in two week batches.
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