Beloved Govan pub Vital Spark transformed into two accessible flats

The scheme, led by Linthouse Housing Association, is part of a broader effort to convert vacant buildings into much-needed housing and offers modern accommodation at the site of the former Vital Spark pub at 1250 Govan Road.

Developed in partnership with CCG (Scotland) and HOOS Development, the project includes a fully wheelchair-adapted home and a second flat designed for future adaptability.

The former Vital Spark pub in Glasgow's Govan has been transformed into two flats (Image: Supplied)

Bryan McMahon, director of property services at Linthouse Housing Association, said: "The transformation of the former Vital Spark premises is a project we are immensely proud of.

"After standing empty for many years, the building is once again making a positive contribution to the local area, now providing much-needed, high-quality homes for our community.

"This was not a straightforward conversion.

"Situated within a pre-1919 sandstone tenement and a conservation area, the development required detailed structural assessment, sensitive design and close collaboration with our delivery partners.

"Throughout the process, our priority remained clear, safeguarding the building’s integrity and character while delivering modern, sustainable homes."

The conversion includes one wheelchair-accessible flat featuring a rise-and-fall kitchen and a second flat with step-free access, wet rooms, wider doorways and space for future adaptation.

Both homes have been finished in high-quality, locally sourced sandstone to match the surrounding tenement and preserve the character of the conservation area.

Bryan continued: "The support from Glasgow City Council, alongside the dedication of our management committee and staff, has been a key driver in delivering this project and highlights the power of true partnership working.

"By thinking creatively about how we repurpose underused buildings, we are not only addressing housing need but also reinforcing the quality and resilience of the surrounding area.

"Ultimately, this project reflects our long-term commitment to protecting homes, investing in our neighbourhoods and delivering safe, affordable and accessible housing that will serve our community for years ahead."

The scheme was not without challenges.

The bathroom area of the two new Glasgow flats (Image: Supplied)

Located in a pre-1919 sandstone tenement within a conservation area, the conversion required detailed structural assessments and sensitive design.

Daveed Barcelo, director of HOOS Development, said: "The conversion of the former Vital Spark presented a series of complex technical challenges that required careful design resolution from the outset."

Sourcing and matching sandstone from local quarries to preserve the historic appearance of the street was crucial to the project’s success.

Daveed continued: "Internally, the creation of new homes within the existing structure also required innovative detailing to meet stringent building standards for both fire safety and acoustic performance.

"The finished product is a strong example of what a sensitive, technically rigorous design can achieve.

"We are delighted to have helped bring Linthouse Housing Association’s vision to life and look forward to continuing our work together in the months and years ahead."

The living area of the two new Glasgow flats (Image: Supplied)

David Wylie, managing director of CCG (Scotland), said: "We’re proud to have worked alongside Linthouse Housing Association and HOOS Development to deliver this unique conversion.

"Adapting existing buildings for accessible living presents specific technical challenges, but this project shows what can be achieved through close collaboration and a shared focus on quality and wider community benefit.

"The development also reflects wider efforts to maximise the use of existing buildings and support sustainable approaches to housing delivery by reducing the need for new-build development where suitable alternatives exist."

The project forms part of a wider programme of work by Linthouse, HOOS and CCG.

The former Vital Spark pub in Glasgow's Govan (Image: Supplied)

This includes an £8 million window and door replacement scheme for 600 homes and ongoing tenement stone repairs.'

We reported in 2023 when the pub was first sold. 

The sale was handled by Cornerstone Business Agents, and while the value of the transaction was not disclosed, it had been on the market at a guide price of £215,000.