A developer has revealed plans to build on the former O2 ABC venue in Glasgow.

The Sauchiehall Street space has lain empty since 2018, with plans even considered for its demolition the following year.

However, a regeneration specialist has launched a series of consultations with local residents to shape a new future for the city centre venue. 

Vita Group's ideas for the site include student accommodation, an 'urban park' space that still respects the architecture of the nearby Art School Mackintosh building, and a ground-level food hall.

Glasgow Times:

Head of planning James Rooke said: “As we start to formulate our ideas for this important landmark and engage stakeholders, we’re keen to canvas opinion and gain support from the community.

"Our aim is to regenerate this anchor site, bringing forward exciting plans for a vibrant food destination on the ground floor which celebrates community, creates a building which interjects with the adjacent buildings and importantly complements the framework set out for the Golden Z.

"Glasgow’s undersupply of student accommodation is well documented and continues to impact on Glasgow’s rental market, reducing available homes across the city.

"With this proposal, we aim to reduce this shortfall in available accommodation with homes specifically designed around the needs’ of students in their second and third year who tend to find their way into the residential rental landscape.”

Vita Group has developed a reputation as one of the country's most respected housing providers, and we previously reported that they had submitted plans to develop a site on India Street consisting of both affordable housing and student accommodation. 

A retail or leisure unit is also planned to be added to the space.

Glasgow Times:

Stuart Patrick, Glasgow's Chamber of Commerce chief executive added: “Sauchiehall Street has been identified as one of the biggest challenges we face, and the ABC is just one of the many current blights on this vital artery which highlight the scale of that challenge.

“It has, as a result, been singled out in the Council’s Golden Z report as deserving top priority for regeneration and renewal, so it is with open arms that we welcome Vita’s plans. 

“Their track record speaks for itself, and we see this as a major step forward in the city’s regeneration journey.”

The first public consultation event will take place on February 13 at the Renfield Training Centre, 260 Bath St between 3pm and 7pm.