Planning permission granted to Easedale brothers to transform historic Watt Brothers store into Glasgow hotel

Planning permission has been granted to redevelop the former Watt Brothers department store in Glasgow city centre into a new hotel.

Billionaire businessmen Sandy and James Easdale, who own McGill’s buses, have been given the go-ahead to regenerate the historic building on Sauchiehall Street, with plans to create a hotel featuring around 100 guest rooms.

The redevelopment aims to bring the long-vacant site back into use, with the developers saying it will support jobs, attract visitors and boost economic activity in the city centre.

Hundreds of people lost jobs after the Scottish department store chain went into administration in 2019.

The fourth-generation family-owned business was incorporated in 1915 with a flagship store in Glasgow’s Sauchiehall Street and sold a wide range of items, including fashion, electrical, homeware, jewellery, gifts and beauty.

Sandy Easdale said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive planning permission for this landmark development, which represents a major vote of confidence in Glasgow city centre at a critical time.

“The former Watt Brothers building has stood as an iconic part of Glasgow’s story for more than a century, and this investment will breathe new life into it – transforming a long-vacant site into a high-quality destination that brings jobs, visitors and renewed economic activity back to Sauchiehall Street.

“This project shows what can be achieved when heritage and regeneration go hand in hand.”

James Easdale added: “This is a hugely significant step forward – not just for this building, but for the wider regeneration of Glasgow city centre.

“Our plans will see substantial private investment delivered into the heart of the city, creating employment during construction and long-term jobs once the hotel is operational, while increasing footfall and supporting surrounding businesses.

“This is about turning a prominent empty building into a catalyst for wider renewal and confidence in Glasgow’s future.

“We have worked closely with partners to ensure the development respects the building’s architectural heritage while creating a sustainable new use that will keep it active for generations to come.

“We would like to extend our thanks to Danny Hazelehurst and Peter Tisdale of THAT Group for their invaluable support and expertise in securing planning consent.

“Their professionalism, strategic insight, and commitment throughout the process were instrumental in navigating the planning system. We also appreciate the constructive input from stakeholders throughout the process, which has helped us reach this positive outcome.”