Glasgow is on the brink of a major urban renewal project as plans to demolish the vacant Buchanan House at Cowcaddens and replace it with a modern housing complex are recommended for approval. The project, initiated by investment management company Davidson Kempner and real estate firm Global Mutual, proposes the creation of 519 build-to-rent flats and 76 homes for private sale at Port Dundas Road.

Set to redefine the city’s skyline, the development will feature buildings ranging from seven to twenty-one storeys, introducing a new vibrancy and architectural landmark to the area. The Glasgow City Council’s planners have highlighted the project’s potential to drive economic growth in the city centre and Cowcaddens district, citing investment, increased population, and job creation as key benefits.

Scheduled for discussion in an upcoming council meeting, the ambitious proposal aligns with the council’s priority to invigorate the city centre by boosting density, footfall, and activity in the neighbourhood. Besides residential spaces, the plans include ground-floor commercial units designed to enhance the area’s appeal, with proposed amenities for residents such as a gym, library, games room, and a sky bar, offering panoramic views of the city.

Despite facing ten objections over concerns like the project’s scale, lack of affordable housing, and potential social impacts, the city’s planners have countered these points by emphasizing the thorough evaluation of the project’s design and its alignment with community and citywide objectives.

The redevelopment promises a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, catering to a diverse range of Glasgow’s population. It also includes plans for a dedicated community space to host various activities, reinforcing the project’s commitment to fostering a vibrant, connected community. Additional features such as play areas, an outdoor gym, rain gardens, and roof terraces are designed to enhance residents’ quality of life.

With sustainability in mind, the project will provide nearly 650 bike spaces for build-to-rent tenants and 95 for private homeowners, alongside limited car parking facilities, promoting a greener, more active lifestyle among residents.

The developers have expressed their excitement about ‘One Cowcaddens’, envisioning it as a transformative development that offers high-quality living spaces and amenities while contributing positively to the local community and Glasgow’s urban landscape. The scheme also includes preserving the iconic bronze ‘Locomotion’ statue by Frank Cossell, ensuring a link between the area’s past and its future.