An application has been submitted to Glasgow City Council by Surplus Property Investments, seeking permission to develop a vacant plot at Festival Gate, located near the BBC’s Pacific Quay headquarters.

The site, a former dockland area, famously hosted the Glasgow Garden Festival in 1988, which drew over four million visitors. Despite various proposals over the years, the land has largely remained undeveloped since the event.

Surplus Property Investments had previously secured planning permission in 2020 for a mixed-use development, including residential units, offices, retail space, and a café. However, the revised application reflects a shift in priorities brought on by changing market conditions post-pandemic.

According to the submission, “market demand for office space has reduced significantly further,” prompting the developer to rethink the original proposal. The new plan removes the office and café elements, increases the number of homes, reduces parking provision, and updates the overall block design.

The revised scheme proposes 49 two- and three-bedroom flats across two blocks, up from the 35 units originally planned. A retail unit at ground level and a rooftop terrace on one of the buildings are also included in the updated design. A total of 32 car parking spaces would be provided.

Historically, the site formed part of Prince’s Dock, which ceased commercial operations in the 1970s. The eastern section was later filled in and repurposed for the Garden Festival, a landmark event opened by Prince Charles and Princess Diana that is widely credited with helping spark Glasgow’s urban regeneration.

The design team consists of architect Grant Murray Architects, structural engineer Goodson Associates, landscape architect DWA, M&E engineer KJ Tait and energy consultant Carbon Futures.