RESPONDING to the decision of the Planning Applications committee of City of Glasgow Council to grant, subject to conditions, the redevelopment of Portcullis House in Glasgow, a spokesperson for Watkin Jones Group said:
“We are delighted that our planning application for The Ard (formerly Portcullis House) has been granted, subject to conditions.
“This mixed-use development, comprising high-quality student homes, will serve to address a well-recognised chronic undersupply of student accommodation in the city, also freeing up homes more appropriate for families.
“In addition to student accommodation, a new multi-space facility for the charity, Glasgow Social Enterprise Network (GSEN) and flexible commercial space will be provided, as well as increased public realm.
“Regenerating a current brownfield site, the development will be designed to the highest environmental standards, boasting the latest low and zero carbon technologies. The Ard will contribute immensely to the greening of the city, providing high-quality publicly accessible open spaces, with biodiversity enhanced through creating new habitats on a site that currently has a low habitat value.
“This will be delivered through increased planting and new landscaped areas, with public realm increased by 75 per cent across the site.
“Redevelopment of the site will form a significant part of an overall renewal of the west end of the city centre, acting as a catalyst for change and enhancing the vitality of this part of the city.
“We look forward to continue to engage with the Council and local community as we progress with the development of the site.”
Stuart Patrick, CEO, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, said: “Today’s decisions regarding Portcullis House and the ABC building are warmly welcomed and mark a positive step forward for the city centre.
“With much debate and discussion about what Glasgow needs to thrive, decisions like these are crucial in advancing the area’s development and will contribute to the broader revitalisation of Sauchiehall Street. We look forward to seeing the developments progress.”
