The Pearce Institute (known locally as the PI) is one of the most important buildings in Govan and its repair and restoration was one of the top priorities of Govan Cross Townscape Heritage Initiative.

Designed by Sir Rowand Anderson and completed in 1906, the PI is a Category ‘A’ listed building in recognition of its national and international importance. The Institute was gifted to the working men and women of Govan by Lady Pearce in memory of her late husband, Sir William Pearce, under whose guidance Fairfield Shipyards became the biggest and probably the most technically advanced shipyard in the world.

The Pearce Institute originally held a range of activities for the whole family – from reading rooms, to a gymnasium for sports and games and many workshops including cooking classes. Nowadays the PI is home to a wide range of community groups and social economy organisations who share the common aim of meeting the needs of the people of Govan. In addition, the PI can offer a wide range of accomodation for hire and is an ideal venue for meetings, conferences, social functions, recreational pursuits and leisure activities.

The first phase of repair work to the Pearce Institute was completed in 2011. It included work to completely restore the roof, stonework repairs and related internal restoration work – ensuring that this important building remains wind and watertight.

Key Facts

Status: Complete

Cost: £2.25 million

Timescale: Completed April 2011

Funders: Govan Cross THI (Heritage Lottery Fund & Glasgow City Council), Central Govan Action Plan, Historic Scotland, Scottish Government, Glasgow Community Planning.

Project Team: Glasgow Building Preservation Trust, Page\Park Architects, Gardiner Theobald, Scott Wilson, CBC Stone.