Green light for ‘affordable’ build to rent flats at Gorbals site

Revised proposals for a residential development on an old industrial site between the Gorbals and Govanhill have been given planning permission.Craighead Properties, which already has planning permission for more than 380 homes at the same location, is now set to deliver 356 build to rent flats on the land bounded by Cathcart Road, Caledonia Road, Lawmoor Street, beside the new Gorbals Retail Park.The developer said the project will provide “a new model of housing” for Glasgow and Scotland, with all of the flats let out “at what would be considered at less than full market rental level”. Unlike some other below full market rental properties operated by Registered Social Landlords, Craighead said it does not require any public sector subsidy.The flats will come fully furnished, with each tenant having the choice of a bespoke furniture package.Each apartment will extend to around 1,250 sq ft, have two bedrooms and a private balcony. Storage space for two bicycles per flat would be provided and there would be 147 regular car parking spaces.The development site extends to an area of 5.1Ha or thereby and has been promoted for residential development for several years. There have been several attempts to develop this site however due to various circumstances no development has taken place. Previously home to the former Dixons Iron Foundry and laterally a Castle Cash and Carry outlet, the site has lain vacant for over 25 years and is on Glasgow City Council’s vacant and derelict land register. Work should start this summer and be completed by the end of 2023.