Watkin Jones Group has submitted an application to develop a 784-bed purpose built student accommodation scheme at former HMRC building Portcullis House at 21 India Street in Glasgow.
If approved, the new development will be called the Àrd. The proposed scheme will regenerate the brownfield site, and includes the partially demolition of the existing building and the part-retention of the existing concrete frame.
Watkin Jones’ plans include developing two buildings of 36 storeys and 10 storeys. The development will also accommodate Glasgow Social Enterprise Network on the ground floor free of charge. GSEN will use the space for a variety of purposes, including providing training opportunities for both social enterprises and students, as well as delivering a technology recycling programme, offering free or low-cost tech to students and social enterprises, serving to reduce tech waste.
Iain Smith, planning director at Watkin Jones, said: “This exciting development at the Àrd will regenerate a brownfield site and bring vitality to this part of the city, providing high-quality and much-needed student homes, in addition to greatly increased public realm.
“It will help to address a chronic undersupply of student accommodation, as well as repopulating the city centre, and benefit local businesses as part of an overall renewal of the west end.”
Jennifer Robertson, director at Glasgow Social Enterprise Network, said: “The provision of a new multi-function space for GSEN at the Àrd is a fantastic opportunity, as we continue to expand our operations. Working with the five universities in Glasgow, this is an ideally located home for us, providing excellent access to the city’s extensive student population.
“Providing opportunities for social enterprises and students, the Àrd will support the delivery of the next generation of entrepreneurs and social and environmental innovators.”
Stuart Patrick, chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, added: “It is fantastic to see this level of investment being proposed for Glasgow by a developer with an exceptional track record of investment in the city.
“The student-age population in Glasgow is increasing, and the city’s three largest institutions are all targeting continued, significant growth in their latest strategic plans.
“Delivering high-quality student homes will address this increasing demand and will also serve to retain skilled young people in the city as well as regenerating the city centre, which is a key aspiration of the city council.
“The site has excellent transport links and local businesses will clearly benefit from these proposals. Innovative developments such as this are to be greatly welcomed.”
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