Shawlands Arcade regeneration consultations to be held next week

Plans for the reimagined space were first shared by the Arcade’s owners Clydebuilt  LP, a joint venture between Strathclyde Pension Fund and Scottish property experts Ediston Real Estate in June of last year.

The Glasgow Times previously reported that developers hoped to completely transform the area with a new shopping and leisure quarter as well as housing units.

Initial consultations have since shown that close to two thirds of those taking part felt positive or generally positive about the proposed regeneration with many hoping to see a better range of shops including high street names and independent traders.

Pictured: The Shawlands Arcade as it is now

The feedback also revealed a common request was that the new development "reflects the unique character of Shawlands and plays a role in the day-to-day life of the community".

Speaking of the project's progression Neal Jamieson, Director of Ediston Real Estate, said: “We now know that the majority of people are in favour of the proposed regeneration but we have also been told that the new development needs to be right for the community.

“As a result, we have been working with the Community Council and listened and engaged with the public to help us design the extensive new public space and gardens included in our proposals. 

"The amount of new public realm will be significantly increased from 17% in the current Arcade, to 50% in our new design. 

"This reflects community wishes for high-quality European style spaces that both locals and visitors can use."

The next stage of consultations will take place on Tuesday, May 10 with community members invited to "meet the team behind the proposals in person".

Pictured: A 'masterplan' shared early this year ahead of initial consultation

Mr Jamieson said: “We are now pleased to be launching a second stage of consultation to share these ideas with the wider community and we will be seeking further community input on the new proposals.

“For the regeneration of the Arcade to happen, it has to be commercially viable and this means that we need to retain control of some aspects of the design, such as the number of new homes.

"While all design points will be finalised in accordance with Glasgow City Council planning, design and transport policies, the proposed balance of housing and retail uses has been carefully considered to ensure a proposal that is realistic and deliverable.

“High volume residential development with low car ownership, is the most sustainable way to address Glasgow’s housing shortage, while also facilitating behaviour change, reducing carbon emissions and mitigating climate change.

“Bike storage and Car Club facilities will be provided on site and this, combined with improved pedestrian connections and Shawlands’ excellent public transport connections, will offer attractive alternatives to car ownership.”

The consultation event will take place from 3 pm to 8pm on May 10 at the former Shawlands Arcade Farmfoods unit.

Those interested in attending are asked to book a slot via the project website here and can attend a live chat at www.shawlandsarcade.com on Wednesday, May 11 from 3 pm to 8pm.