Glasgow’s planning officials have given the green light to the controversial redevelopment of the fire-damaged O2 ABC music venue, paving the way for a student accommodation and public food hall complex — despite opposition from conservation bodies and the nearby Glasgow School of Art.
The new scheme, spearheaded by Vita Group, includes the construction of 356 student beds, a publicly-accessible food hall, and a flexible events space, as well as a central courtyard. Dubbed the “House of Social”, the development aims to regenerate the Sauchiehall Street site that has lain vacant since the 2018 fire at the adjacent Mackintosh Building.
A Divided Reaction
While city planners acknowledged the negative impact the proposed building might have on the historic environment — particularly views of the Charles Rennie Mackintosh-designed art school — they said the derelict state of the site posed a greater threat to the vitality of the area.
“The site in its current form is detrimental to the viability and vitality of the city centre as a whole,” the planning report noted.
Over 130 objections were lodged, including formal statements from Historic Environment Scotland, the Glasgow School of Art, and several members of the public. Critics argue the development could overwhelm the historic character of the Mackintosh building and obstruct key sightlines.
Objectors cited a “significant adverse impact” on views from and of the iconic art school, which itself has undergone repeated setbacks and delays in its restoration following two major fires.
What Was Lost
The O2 ABC, once a cherished live music venue, and the Jumpin’ Jaks nightclub have stood derelict since the 2018 inferno, which severely damaged both buildings in the wake of the second blaze at the Mackintosh Building.
In July 2024, Glasgow City Council issued a dangerous buildings notice, citing an “immediate threat to public safety.” This led to the partial demolition of the ABC, including the iconic facade.
Vita Group’s Vision: A New Kind of Student Living
Vita Group’s “House of Social” model is designed as more than just student accommodation. Their vision blends communal living with public engagement through multi-use social spaces.
The proposed food hall would be open to the public during the day and transition into an events venue at night. The courtyard is meant to serve as a semi-public space encouraging interaction between residents and the local community.
The project also received support from Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, which said the development would “transform this blighted space into a dynamic and attractive environment.” A further 17 letters of support were submitted to the council in favour of revitalising the long-dormant site.
What’s Next?
The final decision now rests with Glasgow’s planning committee, which is expected to meet on Tuesday. Planning officials have formally recommended approval, likely clearing the way for construction to begin later this year — barring any legal challenges or delays.
Whether the redevelopment brings fresh energy or irreversible change to this iconic corner of Glasgow remains a subject of fierce local debate. For many, the scars of the fires still linger — and the challenge lies in balancing regeneration with reverence for Glasgow’s architectural past.
