The University of Glasgow is to take up residence in the Olympia building in the city.

Fifteen staff from the university, from a range of schools and research centres, will occupy the top floor of the former theatre and cinema venue. They will share the space with 30 members of staff from the Glasgow Centre for Population Health (GCPH).

The Olympia re-opened in December 2012 following a £10m refurbishment.

It is understood work will begin in March on the fit-out and layout of the top floor of the building, with staff expected to move in over the summer months.

Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Alex Neil MSP, made the announcement during a site visit to the Olympia. He said: "Thanks to the legacy of the Commonwealth Games and Clyde Gateway's commitment to redeveloping the area, the east end of Glasgow has transformed beyond recognition over the last few years.


"With the University and GCPH now moving east it's clear that perceptions are changing and organisations now have the confidence to relocate to this vibrant, evolving area.

"We've already seen how physical changes is improving the lives of the people and communities who live there, and these new 45 jobs will bring even more benefits to the local economy.

"I'm excited to see how the tenants will continue their valuable research in these new surroundings, and establish how we can bridge the poverty gap and tackle inequalities in Glasgow."

Ian Manson, Chief Executive of Clyde Gateway, added: "This is a particularly important relocation for us. Our efforts to bring the Olympia back into use some 20 years after it had seemingly closed its doors for the final time have proved very worthwhile.

"It is very fitting that Alex Neil has made this historic announcement as it was his decision, back in 2009 in his role as Minister for Housing and Local Communities, to provide us with additional funding to buy the building and bring into public ownership for the first time."

(JP/CD)