AN iconic Sauchiehall Street venue looks set for demolition following the removal of an objection to plans to tear down the fire-ravaged building. 

Historic Environment Scotland (HES), the body which cares for and promotes Scotland's historic buildings, has removed its objection to plans to demolish the O2 ABC in the city centre. 

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The heritage watchdog said it had reassessed information on the building's condition and concluded that the majority of the venue "could not be retained in a meaningful way". 

HES had formerly advocated for the retention much of the building's front facade but now concedes this will not be possible, with the exception of the front portico.

The front portico served as the building's entrance in its former role as the Regal Cinema. 

The iconic venue, an Art Deco former cinema, was ravaged during the second Glasgow School of Art fire in June 2018.

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Its condition has significantly deteriorated since the fire, having been left exposed to the elements. 

A spokeswoman for HES said: “Last year we objected to the proposed demolition of the category C listed O2 ABC building in Glasgow.

“Having reviewed the most recent information regarding the condition of the building, we accept that the majority of the building, including most of the front elevation, cannot be retained in a meaningful way. On that basis, we have now removed our objection.

“However, we have recommended that the portico, which is the former cinema entrance, is retained.”

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The building's fate is ultimately the decision of the city council.

Previous plans to demolish the venue and erect student housing on the site have been rejected by the council. 

Glasgow city council has been approached for comment.