The construction of purpose-built student accommodation is “out of control” in Glasgow, according to a community council.
The concerns arise amid a surge in planning approvals granted by Glasgow City Council, including the green light for what is set to become the city’s tallest building – a 36-storey tower dedicated entirely to student housing.
Meanwhile, nearby, a 26-floor development is under way in Anderston.
Another of the many new purpose-built sites is located in the Merchant City.
Community leaders say the scale of new student builds is reshaping neighbourhoods and displacing long-term residents.
STV News“It’s got rather out of control”, Scott Thornton, of Merchant City and Trongate Community Council, said. “Within a few hundred metres, there are several projects.
“Glasgow City Council has been led up the garden path by developers trying to make a quick buck. We are part of the housing emergency.
“This area has seen very little in the way of private sector building, or even the build-to-rent has been fairly limited.”
With a quarter of a million people waiting for a social home, some feel that’s where the focus should be.
Richard Meade, of the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations, said it is “critical” to focus on social homes if Glasgow’s housing emergency is to be solved.
STV News“By solving student accommodation problems, it does take pressure off the private rented sector, but we absolutely also need to see a focus on building social homes”, he added.
“They are critical if Glasgow is going to solve its housing emergency. far too many children in temporary accommodation and people experiencing homelessness in this city.”
Despite the criticism, many students say the increased demand for accommodation makes new developments essential.
Speaking to STV News, student Lilly-Grace Methven has called for a greater supply of options.
STV News“There are a lot of flats that aren’t as nice, that they say are student-friendly, so it’s almost like, because you are a student, they will just show you ones that aren’t that nice”, she said.
“But, I do think it’s good for students to have more options for places to live that aren’t private or within their price range.”
The council have built just over 1000 affordable and social homes in the last year.
Meanwhile, around 7,500 student beds have been approved for construction.
Ruairi Kelly, Councillor for the SNP, Glasgow North East, said: “The only thing the market is investing in is student accommodation, as we’ve talked about with the rent controls and housing bill.
“Hopefully, that sorts that all out, and we get more investment and interest in all tenures of building.
“I would love to see much more of that.”
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