With this endorsement from the city, Landsec plans to commence the first wave of investment in the centre in the second half of 2026.

The redevelopment will be delivered in phases, ensuring Buchanan Galleries remains open throughout the works.

Charlie Griffiths, asset management director at Landsec, said: “We are delighted to confirm that Glasgow City Council has approved our planning application to refurbish and enhance Buchanan Galleries and the top of the town.

“Our proposal reflects the community call for better retail and leisure, demonstrates our confidence in Glasgow and is aligned to the council’s vision to deliver economic growth and improvement to the city centre.”

Early improvements will include the comprehensive modernisation of the existing mall and more ‘high street’ retail frontage to create a stronger connection to Buchanan Street. Spaces will be created for new leisure and dining concepts, including a destination food hall and the construction of an additional major retail unit on the gap site adjacent to Buchanan Galleries that could host a new flagship store.

Landsec aims to further future-proof retail innovation in Glasgow by incorporating modern digital art and advertising displays and lighting to support brands and promote civic activities.

It is positively engaging with a range of local and international brands that will support the attractiveness and growth of the city centre.

Glasgow City Council leader, Councillor Susan Aitken, said: “There’s already a real sense of momentum building in the city centre and the approved plans for Buchanan Galleries will make a huge contribution to that. I’m particularly pleased to see the refurbishment works are scheduled to start next year, and with the investments already underway and in the pipeline, the renewed Buchanan Galleries can be a major catalyst in the next our city centre’s next chapter.”

Glasgow Chamber of Commerce chief executive, Stuart Partick, added: “Glasgow has long been one of the UK’s leading retail and leisure destinations and we welcome investment that helps keep the city centre vibrant, thriving and appealing to both visitors and businesses.

“Landsec has been a long-term investor in the city and we are pleased that the team has proactively considered how to future-proof such a key part of Glasgow. The approval of this planning application is warmly welcomed, and we look forward to the project’s progression.”