Plans to transform the Portcullis House site in Glasgow’s Charing Cross into a student accommodation complex have been approved by Glasgow City Council, pending certain conditions.

The development, named The Àrd, will feature two buildings: a 36-storey tower and a 10-storey structure, providing a total of 784 student beds. Designed by Hawkins\Brown Architects and developed by Watkin Jones Group, the project aims to revitalise the brownfield site by demolishing the former HMRC building and partially retaining its concrete frame.

Alongside student housing, the development will offer a new home for the Glasgow Social Enterprise Network (GSEN) in a ground-floor unit at no cost. A double-height commercial space will also be included, potentially accommodating a café or flexible workspace, facing Charing Cross station.

A spokesperson for Watkin Jones Group commented, “We are pleased that the planning application for The Àrd has been approved, subject to conditions. This mixed-use development will address Glasgow’s chronic undersupply of student accommodation and free up housing better suited for families.

“The project will not only provide student accommodation but also offer a new facility for GSEN, along with a flexible commercial space and enhanced public realm,” the spokesperson added.

The development is set to feature high environmental standards with the incorporation of low and zero carbon technologies, including heat pumps and low-energy lighting. The site will see a 75% increase in public realm space, enhanced biodiversity through new planting, and improved green areas.

The addition of a sky lounge on the top floor of the taller building will offer panoramic views of Glasgow and be used for pre-booked civic, institutional, and business events.

The redevelopment of Portcullis House is expected to be a key part of the broader renewal of Glasgow’s west end, stimulating further development and enhancing the area’s vitality.

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