O2 ABC could become student flats

A plan has been revealed that would see an iconic music venue in Glasgow transformed into student flats. The 02 ABC on Sauchiehall Street was destroyed by the fire that ripped through the neighbouring Glasgow School of Art fire in 2018, and has remained derelict ever since.

The building itself dates back to 1875.

Now Vita Group has unveiled a proposal for new student accommodation on site, and a public consultation on the new plans will begin on the 13th of February.

The group says the area has been “crying out for investment and regeneration” and the proposal will revamp the gateway to the Golden Z.

James Rooke, Head of Planning for Vita Group said: “ Our aim is to regenerate this anchor site, bringing forward exciting plans for a vibrant food destination on the ground floor which celebrates community, creates a building which interjects with the adjacent buildings and importantly complements the framework set out for the Golden Z.”

The ground floor would be consist of a food hall for “concept restaurants”, with student accommodation above.

The first public consultation event will take place on 13 February 2024 at the Renfield Training Centre, 260 Bath St between 3-7pm.

Initial plans will also be available to view online from 13 February on the consultation website www.vitagroup.com/consultations/sauchiehallstreet

Stuart Patrick, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive said: “Sauchiehall Street has been identified as one of the biggest challenges we face, and the ABC is just one of the many current blights on this vital artery which highlight the scale of that challenge.

“It has, as a result, been singled out in the Council’s Golden Z report as deserving top priority for regeneration and renewal, so it is with open arms that we welcome Vita’s plans.

“Their track record speaks for itself, and we see this as a major step forward in the city’s regeneration journey.”

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