Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries set to be demolished under redevelopment plans

A plan has been submitted to demolish Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries to pave way for a “massive transformation” of the shopping centre.

Current owner Landsec is planning to create a new ‘urban neighbourhood’ in the heart of the city centre.

Glasgow City Council has been working with the development company to look at ways to transform the area due to the disruption facing retail, which has been made worse by the pandemic.

The decade-long project to improve the area would see a new residential, shopping and office quarter created.

Plans could also see a new public space created on the void above Queen Street Station to improve access across the city centre, along with active travel routes and linkages to the station and other public transport hubs.

The Royal Concert Hall would not be affected by any plans.

The developers have launched a public consultation of the plans with any redevelopment requiring the approval of the council.

More than 850 construction jobs could be created each year during the construction of the area – eventually leading to 9,500 permanent jobs for the city centre.

David Heaford, managing director for development at Landsec, said: “Our vision is to replace the existing shopping centre with an exciting new mixed-use urban neighbourhood in the heart of Glasgow city centre, blending world-class shopping with places to work, live and play.

“Our plans will seek to extend the city’s iconic and accessible grid layout, support the city’s net zero ambitions and be informed by the needs and views of local people, visitors and businesses.

“We will be launching a wide-ranging consultation, kicking off in the spring, to help create a place that makes a lasting positive contribution to the city and all those who live, work and visit here.”

Councillor Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “Approval for the commencement of negotiations with Landsec would allow us to push ahead with addressing oncoming challenges and opportunities in this rapidly changing world.

“A 21st century city centre delivering on Glasgow’s international standing and ambitions means more mixed-use developments, a greater residential population, more public spaces, sustainable transport options and more people-focused streets.”

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