34 . Glasgow Business February 2017
LOOKS WEST CAPITAL DEVELOPER Chris Stewart has designs on George Street site P
roperty developer Chris Stewart is well-kent in Edinburgh. Now he’s looking to enchant Glasgow with a stylish development that mixes
regeneration with flair and a contemporary urban vibe. His Old Town developments in Edinburgh, including the Advocate’s Close project, are now firmly on the tourist trail, including the trendy watering hole, the Devil’s Advocate, while he is refurbishing the former HQ of Royal Bank of Scotland into a luxury hotel and five-star apartments. His move to the West must be welcomed.
In May 2015, Chris Stewart Group was named by Glasgow City Council as preferred developer for the buildings located between Martha Street and George Street, off George Square in Glasgow city centre. Previously home to several Glasgow City Council departments, the complex is made up of a collection of disparate
the full potential of the site and enable the use and retention of existing buildings.
What does Chris Stewart want Glasgow to know about his company and its work?
“Our track record is for complex urban redevelopment and bringing areas that have been neglected or forgoten back to life. Every project we have undertaken has involved a historic element or heritage building, because leting these properties lie empty for decades and fall into disrepair is not acceptable.’’
What can Glasgow expect?
buildings – the Category B-listed corner building at 280 George Street, the A-listed Parish Halls at 266 George Street, the 1920s John Street building and former stables on Martha Street. Speaking to Glasgow Business, Chris
Stewart said: “Te George Street Complex is the first project for CSG in Glasgow and while there have been other opportunities, this was felt to be the right one. Strategically, it is in the heart of the city centre and embraces the mix of heritage and new build that excites us as urban designers and developers.”
What does he like about Glasgow?
“Te city has a very distinct character and culture. Tapping into this to reinvigorate an important
city centre block is what drives us as a business.” Te buildings have their own distinct
characteristics, including a grand staircase, stained glass windows, decorative iron railings and glazed brick, and will be preserved. Te proposals allow for a mix of complementary uses that will enable retention and refurbishment of the listed buildings with new build elements that will repair and reinstate the urban block. CSG proposes to create a publicly
accessible pedestrian lane that runs through the heart of the block. Tis will help realise
“Te George Street Complex is about place-making and creating a new destination in the heart of Glasgow. Central to that vision is the creation of a lane extending through the site that will become a hub for a great range of restaurants, bars and cafés, independent boutiques and specialist fashion to foodie shops. Tis is about introducing something new and vibrant to the city – a first – that will be enjoyed by local people, just as much as visitors.
Tat is exciting.” As the project makes its way
through the planning system, we can expect to hear more of Chris Stewart’s plans for this Glasgow site.
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