Developer Downing has submitted a planning application to Glasgow City Council for the significant redevelopment of 40 Anderston Quay, a brownfield site along the River Clyde that was formerly the headquarters for the Daily Record and Sunday Mail newspaper.

The mixed-use scheme is designed to address the high demand for student and co-living accommodation in the city, aligning with the Glasgow City Council's 2024-2030 City Centre Strategy to create a vibrant, well-connected place to live and work.

Construction and Design Details

The project proposes the construction of three blocks with a combined total of 1,135 bedrooms and a 3,700 sq. ft commercial unit.

• Block 1 (PBSA): The scheme's landmark tower, comprising 551 Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) bedrooms across 29 storeys above ground level, featuring an outdoor rooftop terrace.

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• Block 2 (PBSA): A ten-storey building with 282 PBSA bedrooms, designed to connect to public realm walkways to create an active streetscape.

• Block 3 (Co-Living): A thirteen-storey building offering 302 co-living bedrooms (all studios), featuring communal amenity spaces on every floor and a ground-floor commercial retail space.

The façades of the buildings will feature red brick elements, paying homage to Anderston's rich industrial and textile heritage, complemented by white brick to nod to the former Daily Record building.

Sustainability is central to the design, with the development aiming to achieve BREEAM Excellent status. Key sustainable features include:

• The use of heat pumps and Photovoltaic (PV) panels as a core part of the energy strategy.

• A high-performance façade design using traditional materials to reduce energy demand for heating and cooling.

• Car-free design with step-free access, a cycle lift, and secure storage, leveraging the proximity to Anderston station and National Cycle Route 75.

• Biodiversity enhancement through native plant species and dedicated wildflower planting on rooftop terraces and ground-level landscaping.

Downing has also committed to delivering a comprehensive package of public realm improvements, including the creation of a public plaza, a pedestrian walkway to the east of the site, and enhanced landscaping to better connect the city centre with the riverfront.

Ian Harrison, Projects Director at Downing, said the scheme will enhance Anderston's vibrant city centre location, support the City Centre's 2030 vision, and help retain students and young professionals.