Glasgow offices in 'derelict' building to be turned into serviced flats

Offices at Glasgow’s Charing Cross can be converted into serviced flats after council approval was secured.

Double Z International Ltd has been handed permission to change the use of a B-listed property at 71 Berkeley Street.

The firm plans to provide nine serviced apartments, targeted at professionals, students and travellers “looking for long-term or short-term accommodation options in Glasgow”.

Plans stated: “This property provides a lot of potential however due to unfortunate circumstances lies in a state of disrepair. This proposal aims to restore and reinstate the building and prevent any further decay which eventually may become unsalvageable if left untreated.

“Not only will it help to preserve this periodic building, but this proposal will also increase footfall within the neighbourhood outwith working hours, and be economically beneficial to surrounding businesses.”

Four objections to the plan were sent to the council. One nearby resident said: “Glasgow City Council has recently declared a housing emergency, where there are not enough properties available for its residents.

“Increasing the number of short-stay flats does not help, in fact it makes this status even worse.”

They also raised concerns over increased noise and movement in the area, which could “bring distress” to residents that have bedrooms facing Berkeley Terrace Lane. Extra pressure will be put on parking in the area too, they added.

However, council planners have now given the scheme the green light. The firm set to manage the property, Berkeley Urban Retreat, has said it aims to provide a “premium, professionally managed living experience while maintaining the historical integrity of the building”.

They describe the flats as “upscale accommodations that prioritise comfort, convenience and community”. Around £500,000 is expected to be invested in renovating and furnishing the building initially, the application adds.

It also states the “derelict” property has “water ingress through the roof, damp in the basement and internal damage caused by leaking and burst water pipes”.

The plans read: “The proposal provides the chance to enhance the building’s presence… by repairing and maintaining the upkeep of not only the internal condition but also the external façade of this 19th century building.”

The developers say it was not “economically viable” to return the property, originally a townhouse, back to its initial state. They added most of the original features have previously been removed or damaged.