The Scottish Government publishes the Scottish Vacant and Derelict Land Survey sharing all the derelict land and empty space across Scotland.
The amount of derelict and urban vacant land fell by 1% in 2023. This continued the downward trend. The amount has fallen by more than a quarter (28%) since 2016.
Some derelict space in Glasgow is currently being developed into student accommodation, though many sites have remained derelict since the 80s - some owned by Glasgow City Council, and some by the private sector.
A fifth (20%) of urban vacant land in Scotland is located in Glasgow City.
Five councils (North Lanarkshire, North Ayrshire, Glasgow, East Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway) together contain over 50% of all derelict and urban vacant land. The number of sites was 3,109.
11 percent of derelict and urban vacant land in Scotland is located within the 15% most deprived data zones. More than half (52%) of all derelict and urban vacant land located within the 15% most deprived data zones is in Glasgow City.
Take a look below as we share 15 of the most prominent derelict sites in Glasgow city centre.
5. Osbourne Street / Old Wynd - 24 years
Previously used as offices back in 2000, this site famous for the Billy Connolly mural is owned by a private developer and will soon be the site of student accomodation. | Google Maps
6. 22 Kyle Street / 82 Dobbies Loan - 15 years
This massive patch of vacant land north of Glasgow City Centre has been derelict since 2009. It's owned by Glasgow City Council and was previously used as a hostel. | Google Maps
7. East of 109 Dunblane Street - 40 years~
Owned by Glasgow City Council, this land north of Glasgow City Centre has been vacant from 1981-1985. | Google Maps
8. 200 Renfield Street - 16 years
The site of the former STV studio was last used in 2008. It is currently owned by a private developer. | Google Maps