A major refurbishment programme will soon be underway

The A-listed glasshouse, with its large dome, dominates the Botanic Gardens in the west end of Glasgow.

But its badly rusted structure and chipped white paint has left it in urgent need of refurbishment.

It had been feared the landmark would have to close, but a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund combined with extra funding from Glasgow City Council has secured its future.

The council has pledged additional funding of �2.5m and Historic Scotland has said it will also help finance the repair project.

It plans to dismantle, restore and rebuild the structure as well as open a visitor centre.

Aileen Colleran, convener of Glasgow City Council's parks and facilities committee, said: "The restoration of the Kibble Palace is one step closer today.

"The palace is close to the heart of many people in Glasgow and for generations has fascinated children and adults alike with a combination of scientific discoveries and its year-round hothouse environment.

"I'm very pleased with today's decision and we will now look towards the next stage with enthusiasm."

Flora collection

The council has said the emphasis will remain on the care and protection of plant collections but that the building will also be used for cultural events.

Kibble Palace was originally built in 1865 by engineer John Kibble at his house in Coulport, Loch Long.

It was dismantled, shipped up the Clyde and rebuilt in 1873, with structural alterations which included increasing the diameter of the main dome.

Although originally used as a winter garden for concerts and important events, the building now houses flora from a range of countries including Australia, New Zealand, China, and the Canary Islands.