Property developer and asset manager, Sovereign Centros, has submitted a planning application outlining its masterplan proposals for the reconstruction of the St Enoch Centre. The major plan focus on the creation of a mixed-use development within the existing footprint of the centre, removing the glass canopy that has been in place since the development opened in 1989 and focusing on a combination of retail, leisure, entertainment, hotel, offices and city centre living.
Sovereign Centros has held two public consultations on the proposal to develop the centre over the next 15 – 20 years. This includes creating up to 1700 homes, new public realm space and a four-star hotel amidst the retail and commercial mix.
Following the first public consultation, proposals were revisited to include widened streets, increased daylight and a public square.
If the outline masterplan secures consent, more detailed proposals will be developed for consultation. The public and key stakeholders will have the opportunity to view these and to feedback ideas and comments.
Sovereign Centros has recently submitted a change of use application to repurpose the upper floors of Debenhams building which is currently vacant. The developer has showcased how the space could be transformed into flexible offices and a rooftop restaurant.
Guy Beaumont, Director at Sovereign Centros, said: “A great deal of effort has been invested into the creation of this masterplan which reflects extensive engagement with key stakeholders across the city. We have been clear that there is still a lot of detail to be developed and this is the start of a long journey, however we are confident what we have set out represents an excellent contribution to the city and will future proof the site.”
Stuart Patrick, chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, added: “Investment in our city centre is crucial after the challenges we have faced over the past two years. The plans proposed by Sovereign Centros are a vote of confidence for Glasgow in the face of a changing retail landscape and it is encouraging to see those plans set out a mixed use development that expands leisure activities as well as workspace and residential.
“The extent of the consultation on this project is recognised and welcomed as these plans will shape the future of our city and strengthen our prospects of attracting local and international investment.”
For more information visit st-enoch.com/masterplan.
Nearby, billionaire businessmen Simon and David Reuben recently teamed up with Stallan-Brand Architects to prepare indicative plans for a mixed-use development on a gap site that is currently the King Street Car Park. A submission for planning in principle outlines the potential for delivering a mix of apartments, shops, offices and leisure on the city centre site following a pre-application discussions with planners.
This would divide the 5.4 acre site into into five development plots bordering King Street, Osborne Street, Stockwell Street, Bridgegate and Howard Street, which could deliver different types of accommodation.
