Plans to demolish a large section of the former North British Locomotive Company HQ in Springburn have been scrapped.
The building was also used as a Red Cross Hospital during the First World War, it holds incredible significance in the heart of Springburn with Paul and the community are keen to bring it back to life. Speaking to Glasgow Live, Paul Sweeney claimed the demolition application was more of a "cry for help". Owner and developer Marcus Dean has now withdrawn the application and is keen to explore alternatives with discussions of student accommodation now in the mix. Mr Dean wishes to retain the front section of the building which is currently rented out by various businesses and charities - meaning their office units will not be compromised.
"I believe the demolition application was an attempt to signal how dire the situation is for the owner with regards to business rates. Because the business is so big and under utilised he has had real difficulty building it up - I believe it is not for the lack of trying. “The property to be demolished is 20 per cent occupied despite efforts to attract new business. The removal of empty rates concession for the unoccupied portions of the building has resulted in charges far higher than income.