During the 1960's Govanhill faced a spiral of decline as the effects of Glasgow Corporation's demolition policies left buildings derelict and blighted.

By the early 1970's a number of local residents' groups were formed in response to the increasing threat to their homes. In 1974 Govanhill Housing Association was established as a community-based association managed by local people.

Its prime objective was to prevent further demolition of houses through a programme of tenemental improvement involving maximum resident involvement in the design process.

From small beginnings, the Association, in conjunction with its subsidiary, Govanhill Community Development Trust, has become the major agency for regeneration in Govanhill.