Buchanan Galleries could be demolished amidst talks over major project

Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries could be demolished as part of a major re-development project.

Proposals have been outlined by commercial property development company Landsec to replace the existing shopping centre with a new mixed-used area.

It would feature shops and offices, as well as being used for leisure and residential means.

The work is expected to take around ten years to complete if approved, commencing in 2023.

Glasgow City Council, the head landlord of Buchanan Galleries, is to enter negotiations with Landsec – who through its subsidiary, LS Buchanan Ltd, is the head tenant – over the proposal.

The initial proposals set out plans for it to be a net-zero development, in response to the climate agenda.

The council has said that it is considering the use of Tax Incremental Finance (TIF) to support some of the major enabling works that would be required for the plan to be delivered.

It would include a proposal to construct a capping over some, or all, of the North Cutting of the railway line at Queen Street Station to create a platform for either a building or a public space, in addition to public realm works in and around the area.

Progressing the cap will require Landsec to obtain consent from Network Rail, and discussions for this have commenced.

Members of the public will be asked for their view on the proposals, with a consultation being opened in spring next year.

David Heaford, managing director of development at Landsec, said: “Cities around the world are learning to
adapt to the public’s changing habits and we want to help Glasgow to be well-positioned to do the same.

“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.”

Glasgow City Council leader Susan Aitken said the the transformation of Buchanan Galleries can be a “vote of confidence” on Glasgow’s future.

“Glasgow, like town and city centres everywhere, is facing significant and accelerating structural changes,” she said.

“These initial proposals detail a response to those changes, ensuring Glasgow has a vibrant, successful and evolving city centre which continues to be the envy of our peers.

“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.”

Aitken continued: “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.

“The transformation of the Buchanan Galleries can be a vote of confidence on Glasgow’s future.”