CHP Engine Crane Lift at Kelvingrove Park
The University of Glasgow will be carrying out temporary crane lift operations in a small section of Kelvingrove Park during July and August 2026 as part of essential upgrades to the University Energy Centre, based in the Davidson Building. These works have been agreed with Glasgow City Council.
What’s happening?
The Energy Centre’s boiler plant requires major maintenance, meaning large equipment must be safely removed and returned for overhaul. Due to the size and location of the plant, a mobile crane is required to lift the equipment over nearby trees and onto transport. There are no viable alternative methods for completing this work safely.
The crane will access the site via Sunlight Walk and will be positioned within a designated area of the park. All works are temporary, and the park will be fully restored once operations are complete.
Enabling works – May 2026
Ahead of the main lifts, enabling works will take place within a two‑week window starting 18 May 2026. These include small aggregate bases and ground load‑bearing tests. While some construction activity and noise may be noticeable, works are expected to last only two to three days and no route closures are anticipated.
Provisional crane lift dates
- Crane Lift 1: Thursday 23 & Friday 24 July 2026, 6am – 4pm
- Crane Lift 2: Monday 10 & Tuesday 11 August 2026, 6am – 4pm
Contingency dates are in place for the following weeks should adverse conditions prevent the planned lifts.
What to expect
- Temporary access restrictions and pedestrian diversions in a small area of the park
- Signage in advance of the works
- Increased activity and brief periods of noise during lifting operations
Safety and minimising disruption
Public and workforce safety is our top priority, with clearly marked exclusion zones and trained personnel managing access. The University is working to minimise disruption by limiting the duration of works, carefully positioning the crane, and coordinating operations outside peak park usage where possible.
Contact
If you have any questions, please contact:
Email: kelvingroveprojectuofg@glasgow.ac.uk
Phone: Security Gatehouse: 0141 330 4444
Figure 1 - Crane Access and Lift Locations 
Figure 2 - Affected Pathways Leading to Sunlight Walk – During Lift 