Glasgow stands on the brink of exciting changes in 2026 as six key projects reshape its skyline and boost urban life. These developments focus on student housing, retail spaces, and city improvements, all timed to support the upcoming Commonwealth Games and meet growing demands for modern living.
Student Housing Boom in the City
Glasgow’s universities draw thousands of students each year, and new housing projects aim to ease the shortage. With enrollment numbers rising by over 10 percent in recent years, these builds will add hundreds of beds and help keep the city vibrant.
One standout is the Central Quay scheme along the River Clyde. This project turns an old site into a modern hub with 619 student beds in high quality studios. It also includes 9,500 square feet of commercial space on the ground floor for shops and cafes. Construction started in 2025, and workers expect to finish by mid 2026, adding a fresh look to the waterfront.
Another big push comes from the redevelopment of the old Marks and Spencer store on Sauchiehall Street. This 150 million pound effort will create 619 beds for students while bringing back life to a key shopping area. The ground level will feature new retail spots to draw in locals and visitors. This move revives a landmark building that sat empty for years, blending history with new needs.
- Key features of Sauchiehall Street project: Modern studios with shared kitchens, bike storage for 200 cycles, and green roof spaces for relaxation.
- Expected impact: Boost local economy by attracting more students and shoppers, creating around 200 construction jobs.
The Àrd project near Charing Cross takes things higher with two towers, one at 36 stories and another at 10. It will provide 784 student beds on a brownfield site, reusing parts of an old tax office frame to save resources. Approved in late 2024, work ramps up in early 2026, promising stunning views over the city.
Retail and Leisure Makeovers
Shopping districts in Glasgow need updates to stay competitive, especially with online trends on the rise. The Buchanan Galleries overhaul leads this charge, turning the area into a lively spot for food and fun.
Owned by Landsec, the plans include a big food hall with global cuisines, new dining options, and better public areas. It also fills a gap site next door with extra retail and leisure space, plus digital art displays to engage crowds. Work could start in 2026, making it a go to place before the Games arrive. This fits with recent city efforts to improve accessibility, like wider paths and better lighting.
Experts say these changes could increase foot traffic by 20 percent, based on similar UK projects. The focus on leisure helps balance retail losses from the pandemic.
High Rise and Residential Advances
Beyond students, Glasgow pushes for taller buildings and family homes to handle population growth. The city added over 5,000 residents last year, driving demand for diverse housing.
The St Vincent Street student block stands at 33 million pounds and offers 321 self contained studios. It includes amenities like a gym, cinema room, and roof terrace. Construction topped out in October 2025, with full opening set for summer 2026. This adds to the cluster of tall structures downtown, changing how people see the skyline.
| Project Name | Cost (Million GBP) | Beds/Units | Completion Date | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Quay | 150 | 619 beds | Mid 2026 | Commercial space, river views |
| Sauchiehall Street | 150 | 619 beds | Early 2026 | Retail ground floor, historical site |
| The Àrd | Not specified | 784 beds | Late 2026 | 36-story tower, sustainable reuse |
| Buchanan Galleries | Not specified | N/A | 2026 start | Food hall, digital art |
| St Vincent Street | 33 | 321 beds | Summer 2026 | Gym, cinema, bike storage |
| George Square | 123 (part of Avenues) | N/A | August 2026 | Pedestrian areas, event spaces |
Infrastructure and Public Space Upgrades
Glasgow’s streets get a major lift through the Avenues programme, a 123 million pound plan for better walkways and green areas. This ties into the Games by making the center more welcoming for athletes and fans.
The George Square revamp forms a core part, with work finishing in August 2026. It creates open plazas, new planting, and improved access around the city chambers. Other avenues like Argyle Street East start in early 2026, adding cycle lanes and crossings. These changes build on 2025 progress, where four avenues already wrapped up, cutting traffic and boosting safety.
Local leaders praise the shift to a European style layout, with wider sidewalks and less car focus. It solves issues like congestion, which worsened during recent events, and prepares for 2026 crowds.
This wave of developments shows Glasgow’s commitment to growth. They not only add buildings but also jobs, with estimates of 1,000 new roles across sites. As the city gears up for the Commonwealth Games, these projects promise a more dynamic and connected urban space. What do you think of these changes? Share your views in the comments below and spread the word with friends.
