£100m retail development on banks of Clyde gains planning approval

Glasgow Harbour Lifestyle Outlet, brought forward by developer Peel Lifestyle Outlets, will bring 193,500 sq ft of retail; 65,000 sq ft of food and beverage; and 99,800 sq ft of leisure space on land bordered by both the River Clyde and River Kelvin.

The development will have around 120 shops plus restaurants, a 12-screen cinema, a large ‘family leisure’ unit and a gym.

Planning permission in principle was already in place but a decision was needed on the detailed plans, submitted by Glasgow Harbour Ltd on behalf of Peel Lifestyle Outlets.

A report by Glasgow City Council officials, which recommended the approval of the project, stated: “The concept has been developed through the applicant’s earlier commercial experiences at Gloucester Quays and Lowry Outlets, Manchester and are promoted as being the opposite of a traditional, enclosed shopping mall.

“Units are largely arranged around a network of internal streets and spaces, one of these being a ‘covered street’.”

The report continued: “It will provide VIP and concierge shopping services and will work with agencies, airports and airlines to promote Glasgow to the national and international market.”

Councillor Jon Molyneux said the approved planning in principle had been more focused on leisure than retail, but the more detailed plans showed more shops.

However, a planning officer said they were happy with the mixed-use development, which is set to be made up of six blocks. More than 1,300 parking spaces will be provided.

There will also be a footbridge over the Kelvin River, riverside walkways, cycle paths and landscaped terraces, plus ‘arrival’ squares, boulevard and plaza spaces.

Vehicle access will be via a new junction across from the petrol station on Castlebank Street.

A large student accommodation building has already opened at the site. It’s intended to further develop the site with a hotel and riverfront flats although these will require separate planning applications.

Jason Pullen, Peel Lifestyle Outlets’ managing director, said: “Shopping has evolved to become a major leisure activity. We are creating the next generation of outlet destination by delivering a balanced combination of exciting leisure and entertainment with a strong retail offering.

“Glasgow Harbour Lifestyle Outlet will have a multi-generational appeal, as operators are supported by events, activities and performance space.”