CRGP

Works Commence on New Gurdwara

30 January 2012

Works start today on a new Gurdwara on Albert Drive in Glasgow. The CRGP-designed Sikh Temple will be one of the largest in Scotland, accommodating up to 1,000 worshippers.

At a Special Prayer Ceremony held to mark the commencement of works, Surinder Singh, president of the Gurdwara committee said, "A new building will serve us and our children and future generations of Sikhs for years to come."

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, MSP for the constituency within which the Gurdwara is being built, said "This proudly displays our diversity and multi-culturalism. Sikhs in Scotland have always been an integral part of our Scottish society and the new Gurdwara symbolises a sign of progress."

The development regenerates a derelict site adjacent to the award-winning Tramway Theatre and, given the close proximity of Pollokshaws railway station, detailed consultation with Network Rail and Glasgow City Council was required.

CRGP Architects designed the temple following a lengthy consultation with several Sikh communities, and CRGP Project Management selected CBC (Central Building Contractors Glasgow Limited) for the construction work following  competitive tendering.

The Sikh place of worship is called Gurdwara literally meaning "God's House". The Gurdwara is more than a place of Worship; it is also a focal point of the Sikh Community.

Gurdwara must provide prayer hall(s), in which the focal point is the Holy Book, called Guru Granth Sahib Ji, and Community Kitchens called langar. Additionally a "bedroom" must be provided for the overnight accommodation of the Holy Book which the Sikh Religion regards as representing the living Guru and must therefore rest every night just like everyone else.  As it is not permitted to walk over the holy book the Prayer Hall(s) are located on the topmost storey of the Building.  Traditionally a feature dome is provided over the dias on which the Holy Book is placed within the Prayer Hall to prevent persons on the roof walking above the Holy Book. The Gurdwara will also provide teaching facilities, guest and priest's accommodation, a library and General Purpose rooms.

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