Plans for a 25-storey purpose-built student accommodation tower have been approved, marking the first phase of the £250m Charing Cross Gateway regeneration project in Glasgow city centre.
Developer CXG Glasgow has secured detailed planning permission for the 620-bed student accommodation scheme at Elmbank Gardens. The development forms the opening phase of the wider Charing Cross Gateway masterplan, which will transform a prominent city centre gateway with a mix of residential, commercial, retail and public realm uses.
Designed by Michael Laird Architects, the tower will occupy the corner of Bath Street and Newton Street and will become a key feature of the regeneration scheme.
Preparatory work is already underway, with demolition contractor Reigart Contracts clearing the site by removing two 1960s buildings. The demolition programme is expected to be completed in August, paving the way for future construction.
Building work on the student accommodation development is scheduled to begin in 2027, with completion anticipated in 2030.
The wider Charing Cross Gateway masterplan received outline planning permission towards the end of last year. Future phases are expected to deliver Grade A office accommodation, private homes, retail units and new public spaces, with development planned for the early 2030s.
Andrew Richardson, managing director of development at ESR DevCo, said: “Securing detailed planning consent marks a major milestone for Charing Cross Gateway and brings us a significant step closer to transforming this important gateway site.
“This development represents a major investment in Glasgow and will support construction jobs as work progresses, helping to drive activity and momentum within the city centre.”
