Fresh bid to build 140 flats at empty car park near Lidl supermarket

A fresh bid to develop an empty car park near Lidl in Finnieston could see 140 flats constructed.

Glasgow City Council has received an application to build apartments for sale at 30 Finnieston Street. Plans for 132 flats and ground-floor shops were approved in 2023 despite almost 300 objections from residents.

The new scheme, Singaporean developer Woh Hup Group, seeks a “modest increase in the number of apartments”. It is described as an “enhancement of the original proposal” in the application.

“In our opinion the scheme strikes a careful balance between maximising housing delivery and creating a desirable living environment,” the plans add.

The developer believes the project would provide “much-needed residential for sale accommodation”, as there is a “recognised shortage of for sale units in Glasgow”.

The site, a surface level car park at the junction of Finnieston Street and Minerva Street, is currently empty. Plans state: “As per the extant planning consent, the proposed development is to erect a residential-led mixed use building with ground floor commercial uses on Finnieston Street and at the eastern end of Minerva Street with residential flats above.”

A mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments, as well as 70 car parking spaces, are proposed to “appeal to a broad and diverse demographic, including individuals, couples, and families”.

The application states the “restriction of city council parking permits for new-build developments in this location continues to present a significant challenge. “This limitation can affect the attractiveness of schemes to certain buyer groups who rely on car ownership,” it adds.

Car parking is expected to be provided in the basement, with a private courtyard at ground level. Co-working areas and a gym are also included in the plans.

The application continues: “With new site ownership, there is a compelling case to revisit the scheme and diversify the offer.

“This builds on learning from the pandemic and the applicant’s unique experience to create a more focused mixed-use development that will be sustainable and resilient for residents and the economy alike.”