Plans unveiled to develop site of former O2 ABC music venue six years after devastating blaze

Plans to develop the site of the former O2 ABC in Glasgow have been revealed by a developer – six years on from a devastating blaze which destroyed the popular venue.

The music venue and nightclub was extensively damaged by a fire in June 2018 that affected the Glasgow School of Art and nearby buildings on Sauchiehall Street.

Plans were previously considered for demolition of the site but the Vita Group has launched a series of consultations with local residents.

Specialising in student accommodation, the developer has plans for an ‘urban park’ on the site which would reflect the architecture of the nearby Art School Mackintosh building.

A food hall also has been suggested near the site of former nightclub Campus, which was also forced to close due to the effects of the fire.

A first public consultation is due to take place on February 13 at the Renfield Training Centre on Bath Street between 3pm and 7pm.

James Rooke, head of planning for Vita Group, said: “As we start to formulate our ideas for this important landmark and engage stakeholders, we’re keen to canvas opinion and gain support from the community.

The School of Art and O2 ABC buildings were gutted by flames in June 2018. Photo: STV News. SFRS

“Our aim is to regenerate this anchor site, bringing forward exciting plans for a vibrant food destination on the ground floor which celebrates community, creates a building which interjects with the adjacent buildings and importantly complements the framework set out for the Golden Z.

“Glasgow’s undersupply of student accommodation is well documented and continues to impact on Glasgow’s rental market, reducing available homes across the city.

“With this proposal, we aim to reduce this shortfall in available accommodation with homes specifically designed around the needs of students in their second and third year who tend to find their way into the residential rental landscape.”

Stuart Patrick, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce chief executive said: “Sauchiehall Street has been identified as one of the biggest challenges we face, and the ABC is just one of the many current blights on this vital artery which highlight the scale of that challenge.

“It has, as a result, been singled out in the council’s Golden Z report as deserving top priority for regeneration and renewal, so it is with open arms that we welcome Vita’s plans.

“Their track record speaks for itself, and we see this as a major step forward in the city’s regeneration journey.”