Developing Glasgow: Plans submitted to convert empty B-listed Sauchiehall Street building into pub and restaurant

A planning application to convert the basement, ground and upper three floors of 123 Sauchiehall Street, which is next to the former Watt Brothers, has been submitted to the council by Threadneedle Property Unit Trust.

The upper floors of the building have been described as being in a dilapidated condition, having undergone numerous modifications over the years and are currently vacant. The applicant hopes to transform them into serviced apartments.

The building has been subjected to changes over the years including the removal of the main stair from the ground  first floor to enable greater retail space.

Despite the second and third floors being closer to the original layout, the absence of a lift and awkward stair access makes the upper floors currently unusable.

Proposals submitted to Glasgow City Council so far include accessible rooms on every floor with lift access, retention of three retail units on the ground floor and the proposed ground floor level pub serving food with access from the back of Sauchiehall Lane.

The developer also wants to reinstate the main stairwell and lift from Sauchiehall Street. Opinions have already been sought from Glasgow City Council and Historic Environment Scotland (HES) on the plans.

Glasgow City Council has been noted as saying: “The proposed development was considered in principle to be a suitable use for a vacant and dilapidated building (subject to Heritage considerations).”

HES added: “Aware that a different use that preserves all or most of the upper floor rooms at their current size is unlikely to be easily identified or secured. We are keen that the upper floors of the building are brought back into use, to avoid the building falling into dereliction.”