Plans for the redevelopment of Pacific Quay have been boosted by Glasgow council’s decision to give consent for a new road bridge over the River Clyde.
The BBC’s proposed move to the scheme on the south bank of the River Clyde – seen as vital to its success – depends on the construction of the four-lane Finnieston Bridge.
The proposals from Pacific Quay Developments – a joint venture between Miller Developments, Grosvenor and CTP, in association with Scottish Enterprise Glasgow – have now been referred to the Scottish Executive.
The Executive has 28 days to decide whether or not to hold a public inquiry.
Finnieston bridge will offer a road link between the Scottish Exhibition Centre on the north bank and the Glasgow science centre on the opposite side of the River Clyde.
It will also provide pedestrian access to Pacific Quay, earmarked by the BBC for a 60,000 sq ft (5,500 sq m) Scottish HQ.
BBC bosses have said the bridge is crucial if it is to move to Pacific Quay, as it will attract other organisations to the area.
It is believed that the BBC will buy the land for its premises once consents are in place for its scheme and the bridge, kick-starting mixed-use regeneration in the area.
If plans go ahead without an inquiry, the BBC will begin work on its HQ early next year, with completion due by the end of 2005.
According to David Malloy, director at Miller Developments, the bridge will take around nine months to build, with completion by the end of 2003.
Pacific Quay Developments is reworking its masterplan for the 60-acre (24ha) waterfront site. The reworked plans could see the office content nearly double, from 370,000 sq ft (35,000 sq m) to 650,000 sq ft (60,000 sq m).
Up to 400 flats could also be built on the site, alongside public transport links to the city centre and other commercial uses.
The site houses the Glasgow Science Centre, an IMAX Cinema and the Millennium Tower.
EGi News 21/11/02
