Council to run consultation on tall buildings in Glasgow

The consultation will be open to the public until the end of September

People are being asked to give their thoughts on the plans
Author: Molly TulettPublished 8th Jul 2024

People in Glasgow are being asked to give their thoughts on plans to build a number of new tall buildings in the city.

The consultation will run until September 30, and will give people the chance to help shape the final design guidance on Tall buildings.

The guidance will help decide the best location for new builds, which could see old buildings having new height added to them to be repurposed, as well as plans to re-populate areas of the city, including adding more density to the centre.

While there are strategies in place to add density and height along the Clydeside, the council is hoping to maintain the character of the Glasgow Central Conservation Area.

"Forward thinking and holistic responses"

A range of opinions are expected from the consultation, including that it could help reduce the sprawl of the city, as well as providing opportunities for refurbishment and re-use.

However the council is also aware of the concerns it may be become inherently unsustainable, with a greater consumption of materials, energy, and resources, than lower-rise buildings, as well as creating social and environmental issues.

The council says it “recognises the role taller buildings play in terms of sustainable and organic growth of the city system, and encourages competent, forward thinking and holistic responses to the challenges of planning, constructing, and maintaining taller buildings.”

They are also recommending tall buildings should not be the only solution, but should be alongside other forms of low and medium impact developments that “promote diversity, liveability and inclusive economic growth.”

"Promote diversity, liveability, and inclusive economic growth"

Councillor Ruairi Kelly, Convener for Neighbourhood Assets and Services at Glasgow City Council said: “New Tall Buildings are an increasing feature of Glasgow, particularly where increased density will help us grow the city centre population.

“With more proposed and in the pipeline, we are refining the planning and design guidance so that these buildings are located and designed in the best way for the city.

“We want as many people as possible to take part in this consultation to help shape this guidance and ensure that the city meets the needs of Glaswegians today and can rise to the challenges yet to come.”

This consultation can be found on the council's website.

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