Plans have been announced by Fusion Students for the redevelopment of the former Marks & Spencers (M&S) store on Sauchiehall Street in Glasgow. It is anticipated that a Proposal of Application Notice will be submitted to Glasgow City Council in September 2022, with a full statutory consultation schedule announced thereafter.
The proposals would see a unit for a new retailer to maintain activity at street level and provide a publicly accessible connection between Sauchiehall Street and Renfrew Street. The upper levels of the former M&S building would have purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and potentially other residential accommodation for approximately 500 residents. The scheme will also include a rooftop terrace and garden.
“We are delighted that these plans are being brought forward to redevelop the site and ensure a positive future for this part of Sauchiehall Street.
“Over the last few months, we have been focused on making sure this site can find a complementary alternative use, so we’re really pleased that these redevelopment plans are driven by strong design and sustainability credentials and that they are in line with the City and Council’s vision for the local area.”
Spokesperson for Marks & Spencer
The development is being brought forward by Fusion Students, a UK-based residential and student housing developer and operator. Founded in 2013, Fusion Students offers student accommodation and amenities, and aims to deliver a unique student experience in a healthy, social and vibrant environment.
“We are excited to be unveiling our proposals for this prominent location on Sauchiehall Street at the former Marks & Spencer site. Glasgow is a first-class university city with several world-renowned educational institutions that attract students from across the globe. The delivery of high-quality accommodation for a growing student population is required to enable the city to maintain its position as an educational powerhouse on the global stage.
“Our studies have shown that there is a significant undersupply of PBSA in the city, with 73% of the city’s growing student population unable to access this valuable type of accommodation.
“This shortage often leads students into privately rented accommodation, creating pressure on the local housing market. By bringing first-class purpose-built accommodation to the city, coupled with carefully thought-out public realm spaces and new retail units, we believe our proposals will enhance this historic street in the heart of Glasgow city centre.”
Spokesperson for Fusion Students
Fusion Students have completed nine sites in cities across the UK – including Cardiff, Swansea and Sheffield, and have constructed over 4,500 beds for the country’s student population. Existing developments feature communal spaces such as indoor-gyms, wellness rooms and cinemas.
