Glasgow City Council is launching a groundbreaking Tenement Design Contest to find architectural proposals for the prominent Albert Cross site in Pollokshields, which has been left derelict after two major fires destroyed two B-listed tenement blocks in 2019 and 2020.

The initiative, instigated by Councillor Ruairi Kelly, Convener for Housing, Development and Built Heritage, is the first significant project of its kind in Glasgow. It aims to restore the vibrancy and historic feel of the Albert Drive Town Centre while creating a blueprint for renewing other "gap sites" across the city.

Councillor Kelly noted that long-standing issues around complexities of ownership and the high costs of redevelopment mean that direct intervention by the council is necessary. He expressed confidence in the city's architectural community: "My intention is that the design and architectural excellence we have in Glasgow, and the prominence of the location, will mean we get some really innovative and exciting proposals."

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The competition seeks designs that are sympathetic to the built heritage of the East Pollokshields Conservation Area, which is arguably the UK’s oldest tenement conservation area, while incorporating innovative and sustainable approaches.

The council plans to issue an open call to architectural design teams to create "an exceptional proposal for the redevelopment" of the two prominent sites. To ensure the proposals meet design, community aspiration, and heritage criteria, a judging panel will be formed, including design and heritage experts, city councillors, and local community representatives. Short-listed teams will receive funding to develop their proposals further before a final winner is selected and funded to fully work up their design.

Niall Murphy, Director of Glasgow City Heritage Trust, welcomed the move: "Although the loss of the two 'B' listed Albert Cross tenements has blighted the neighbourhood, it is an opportunity for renewal. This is a chance to re-invigorate the area through thoughtful Place-mending that should celebrate East Pollokshields' rich Victorian architecture."

David Cook, Chief Executive of Glasgow Building Preservation Trust, added that the competition will provide an opportunity to create high-quality replacements and help "stitch back new housing into the gap sites" to address the housing emergency.