SWG3 gets approval for rooftop studios from Glasgow City Council

New rooftop workspace studios are to be created at arts and event venue SWG3 after they secured council approval.

The company had initially planned to open a restaurant but applied to alter the plans to provide a “variety of differently sized studios, social spaces and amenity spaces” instead.

Under the new scheme, there will be 14 studios, a meeting room, communal breakout space and a shared kitchen. A “feature staircase” will connect the existing studios with the rooftop extension.

The firm’s plans stated: “SWG3 currently provide a range of studio workspaces, supporting a series of successful businesses which have contributed to SWG3 becoming a hub for the creative industries.

“There is continuing demand for studio workspace at SWG3 and the application responds to this by proposing a new workspace cluster on the rooftop of the existing premises.”

SWG3 gets permission for rooftop studios LDRS

Developing the Eastvale Place venue will “cater for the rising interest to be part of SWG3’s unique campus ‘family’”, the application added.

SWG3 hosts a range of indoor and outdoor music and arts events as well as cultural and political gatherings, such as the New York Times Climate Hub during COP26.

It is hoped the plans will enhance the existing offer at the venue, particularly during the day. Plans submitted to the council claimed the premises are “integral to the growing business and creative community on Eastvale Place which is contributing to the wider regeneration of Yorkhill and Finnieston”.

“Alongside their economic contribution to the city, SWG3 plays an important role in supporting the creative industries sector and SWG3 is an essential part of the Scottish arts and music industry ecosystem; a place where artists perform and where talent is developed.”

As well as the new stairs, an external walkway with “scenic views across Glasgow and the Clyde” will be created, and the venue wants to promote ‘circular economy’ ethics.

The plans explained SWG3 will “provide studio space for new start-ups or current occupants looking to expand”.

“The studio nature of the spaces would look to encourage different businesses and individuals to exchange knowledge and ideas, creating a circular method to business development,” the application added.

SWG3 also intends to install solar panels to produce electricity for the campus while the proposals included “rainwater harvesting which will help to reduce water consumption, both for toilet flushing and irrigation purposes”.

Air source heat pumps are also expected to be used in the development.