A Glasgow 'soup kitchen' has turned down a fresh offer of an indoor space to feed the most vulnerable city residents as temperatures plummet below freezing.
Glasgow City Council recently offered the Homeless Project Scotland (HPS) which currently operates on Argyle Street under Central Bridge, use of the St Francis Centre on Cumberland Street, which is open from 9am until 9pm most days.
The local authority said it was willing to “come and go” on the opening times but this was knocked back by HPS who say they want a building they can operate 24/7 with a capacity of more than 200 people.
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And that has left the council struggling to find a suitable building, with a spokesman saying they do not have a property which would match the “change in requirements” for HPS.
It is understood that the project, which serves hot food to around 200 people of all ages a night from 8pm onwards, had pushed for a return to the Hamish Allan Centre, despite being told by the council that the building was in no fit state to be used.
As well as serving on average 130,000 meals a year, volunteers also provide support and advice to prevent homelessness.
Chairman of the HPS Colin McInnes claims he was asked to cut the seven days a week service by the council however.
Mr McInnes, said: “About two weeks ago the council asked if we could stop our seven day service and change it to two days a week for one hour a day.
“I am not aware of any proposals to allow our charity to operate at St Francis at the times we require. In my opinion it sounds like they want us to close down. I have asked them to give me in writing the proposals because I have never received any offer in writing.”
Glasgow City Council says it is limited in what properties are available and has confirmed that Argyle Street is not suitable for delivering support to vulnerable groups.
A spokesperson for the council said: “We have tried to find a suitable building for HPS to host their evening soup kitchen , but they have rejected the three options offered to them.
“HPS recently told us they now want somewhere that can open round-the-clock with a capacity for over 200 people.
“We are very sorry, but we just don’t have a place that matches the revised requirements set out by HPS.
“But it must be stressed that no-one needs to sleep rough in Glasgow.
“Not everyone wants our help, but our street team goes out daily to offer accommodation, food and support to anyone they find rough sleeping.
“We also have a network of Welcome Places this Winter providing warmth and facilities to city residents.”
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