Glasgow city centre’s transformation into a cluster of uniformly-designed student accommodation blocks has taken another step forward with the release of images for the site of the former ABC music venue.

Many have lamented the loss of the ABC and its distinctive architecture which will be replaced by a 356-bed unit that will include a ground floor food hall, courtyard and bars accessible to the public.

While critics point to the lack of any local references in the buildings being constructed in Glasgow, it is hoped the £70 million block will at least help to breathe new life into down-at-heel Sauchiehall Street which has also lost Marks & Spencer and Bhs, as well as bank branches

A planning application by urban regeneration firm Vita Group will be considered by city
councillors next week.

Earlier this year the ABC building’s owner, OBARCS, was controversially instructed by the council to undertake partial demolition works on site as it was deemed a risk to public safety and in danger of collapse.

The music venue was severely damaged when fire broke out in June 2018 at the neighbouring Glasgow School of Art building.

During the ABC’s 144-year history it has been a diorama theatre, a circus, a dancehall and a cinema.

The new food hall that will be part of the Vita building will provide space for five emerging food brands, with over 400 covers and a large bar. It would become an events space featuring music, entertainment and a community hub.

There are plans for a fitness centre, social and study spaces, café-style lounges and cycle storage.

James Rooke, planning director for Vita Group, which has created other sites in Glasgow, said: “We believe our proposals offer a unique approach to student living.

“The benefits the development will bring extend far beyond the student community. It will generate significant economic benefits, will help to reenergise Sauchiehall Street and contribute to the city’s Golden Z ambitions.

“This is an incredibly challenging site to redevelop and we’ve worked hard to create proposals that are deliverable and appropriate.”

The proposals have the support of a wide range of stakeholders including local businesses
and the Chamber of Commerce.

Stuart Patrick, chief executive of the Chamber, said: “It is critical that this key site is brought forward for development as soon as possible.

“There’s no doubt it’s been a blight on Sauchiehall Street, and we need to secure this much needed investment which would be transformational.

“Vita Group is one of the UK’s most respected housing providers and has a history of investing in Glasgow with an existing residence, Vita Student West End on Beith Street and a second under development for a site at 20 India Street which includes affordable housing.”

Gorgie flats approved

Proposals for student accommodation on the site of the former Murrayfield Sports Bar in Gorgie, Edinburgh, have been approved.

The scheme is the first by EH1 Students Gorgie. It will create 80 units and transform a brownfield site.