Glasgow Buchanan Galleries redevelopment transformation 'taking shape' as public consultation calls for views

Plans for the future of a major redevelopment of Glasgow’s Buchanan Galleries are beginning to “take shape” following the conclusion of the first stage of a public consultation.

The second stage of the consultation will be launched by owners Landsec on September 8 and the public, businesses, and local community are being invited to share their views and opinions.

Landsec’s vision is to replace the current shopping centre with a new net zero mixed-use urban district in the heart of the city blending world-class shopping with places to “work, live and play”. 

The plans will seek to extend Glasgow’s grid layout, support the city’s net zero ambitions, and meet the needs of local people, visitors and businesses.

The re-development proposes to transform the area by introducing flexible buildings and additional public space designed for flagship and independent shops, restaurants and hospitality, office and residential use.

The proposals will also promote health, wellbeing and accessibility for all, by tripling the amount of green space, prioritising walking, cycling and public transport and removing barriers to movement around the city centre.

In the first stage of the consultation, more green spaces, street-level shops and restaurants, better lighting, and making it easier for people to move around the city and use public transport were some of the key topics raised.

The second stage aims to gather more views to create a phase one masterplan which will be put forward for planning permission early next year.

Nick Davis, senior development director, Landsec said: “We had a positive response to stage one of our public consultation and would like to reach as many people as possible in September to hear more views and opinions.

“We want local voices to help shape our masterplan for this exciting project to create a more accessible, green, safe and vibrant city centre which works for everyone.

“We will be launching the next consultation stage on September 8 outlining in more detail our emerging plans and we encourage as many people as possible to have their say.”

Glasgow city council leader Susan Aitken said: “This landmark proposed redevelopment responds to the needs of our evolving city centre and will enhance Glasgow’s reputation as a leading retail, leisure, employment and cultural destination.

“As Scotland’s first net zero development of this scale, the plans aim to meet the changing expectations of citizens, businesses and visitors, so it is crucial that as many people as possible have an opportunity to share their views.”

Stuart Patrick CBE, chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce added: “This development will transform the city centre, completely revitalising the area and support post-covid recovery through stimulating additional jobs and inward investment.

“The way people shop, live and work has changed, and these plans will help the city respond and recover. This is an exciting development rooted in and shaped by the city. We would encourage everyone to contribute to stage two and support this vital investment.”