Who we are

A brief history of the Ruchill Community Council

Our Story

In 2014, the first Ruchill Community Council came to light. The chair at that time was Eleanor Brown, an exceptional woman and board member of Maryhill Housing Association. Eleanor passed in 2018. Many tributes were paid to her. “Eleanor personified the selfless dedication of so many people. These people devote years of their time to the housing association movement. She was on Maryhill’s Board for decades, and before that, its management committee.

She was extremely proud of her Ruchill community. She helped blaze a trail in community-controlled housing with the hugely-successful stock transfer of homes in Ruchill in 1994.”

The council then, had the use of the community centre, central to the area. Meetings were held there regularly. The community had easy access to reach out anytime they needed. They felt supported because someone was always there.

For many years, the community council was disbanded due to the trials and tribulations of COVID. The closing of the community centre on Bilsland Drive made for a dismal living. The community centre had been the hub of Ruchill, events like homework club for 5-12 year olds. Activities included singing and fitness classes. Drama and karate classes were also offered, along with the grafters group. There was a credit union and advisory groups. Dance classes and Friday evening drop-ins for the kids were available too. There’s nothing like that anymore at the centre of Ruchill.

That’s why……….

In August 2023, we established a new Ruchill Community Council. We’ve made significant progress since then. Our efforts aim to prevent the closure of the community centre—a struggle that has persisted for four years.

Every Saturday, we stand outside the center from 12 PM to 1 PM. This happens regardless of the weather. We do this to raise awareness and support our cause.

Part of our job as elected councillors is to actively look out for deterioration of the area. Pavements and street lighting, potholes and parking. We report issues promptly when we see them. It’s important that you, the residents, also know how to report something. Bus shelters bus routes should continue to serve our community as we need them. There are many things to look out for. Making our community a place where you can safely take your family is important. We should all be proud of our community.

Our monthly meetings have seen strong participation from a diverse range of community members. This includes elected councillors who live among us. They are committed to listening to your concerns. We also welcome councillors from various political parties. Housing planners, regeneration groups, local business owners, and community police are also invited. They all contribute valuable perspectives.

This is your community, and your voice matters. We encourage you to share your thoughts on what you need and what improvements you’d like to see. Together, we can enhance our neighborhood and promote cleanliness. We can prioritise our health and well-being. We will do all this while being mindful of our environmental impact. Let’s work together to shape the future of Ruchill!