Landsec unveils designs for Buchanan Galleries redevelopment
Landsec has unveiled its latest designs for the redevelopment of the Buchanan Galleries shopping centre in Glasgow, as it prepares for the next round of public consultation.
The proposed changes would see Buchanan Galleries and the surrounding areas transformed into a mixed-use scheme, with shops, restaurants, workspaces as well as green and public spaces.
Landsec began its consultations on creating a mixed-use destination in Glasgow in 2021, having expressed a desire to expand this part of its business in its 2020 strategic review.
The real estate investment trust (REIT) says that the proposals would see Glasgow at the forefront of a sustainable and economic future, with the plans aligning with post-COVID city centre recovery plans set out by the local government and Scottish Parliament. It added that increased pedestrianisation set out in the proposals would also aid Glasgow in becoming a greener and safer city.
Landsec will invite the public to share their views from January 26th.
The proposals would see the demolition of the iconic steep steps outside Glasgow Concert Hall, which has become well-known as a meeting place for friends and protesters alike.
Built in 1999, Buchanan Galleries was nearly the site of a ‘supermall’ extension in a project worth around £400m, but developments were cancelled just days before development was due to start in 2015.
The latest plans reflect a shift in trends in the commercial property market, as more REITs turn to mixed-use developments.
Deborah Freeman-Watt, head of regional and Scotland development at Landsec, said: “Our vision in Glasgow is to curate a vibrant new district that is fit for the future, by introducing open spaces alongside new streets which host a mixture of places to work, shop, live, eat and socialise in the heart of the city.”
Stuart Patrick CBE, chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce said: “Glasgow is the engine of the Scottish economy, and this proposed development will support the city in rebuilding its competitive advantage, making a major contribution to post-covid recovery, and ensuring Glasgow remains an attractive and sustainable place in which to live, work, study, visit and invest.”
