Scottish Opera's New HQ in Glasgow Gets Planning Permission

Scottish Opera's plans for a new headquarters in Glasgow have been given the green light by the City Council. Designed by Page\Park Architects, the project will revitalise the site beside the Forth & Clyde Canal, known locally as New Rotterdam Wharf, with a mixed used development. Ryden Planning team in Glasgow provided planning consultancy services to the project.

As well as a new headquarters, the development will serve as a creative Education and Community outreach hub for the citizens of Glasgow and include 'state-of-the-art' orchestral rehearsal and performance spaces, adaptable to becoming a conference centre and film sound stage. The potential economic impact and further social and creative benefits will positively contribute to Glasgow as a place to study.

The development will also contain classrooms for skills development courses, music practice rooms for hire, and a public café with panoramic views over the city. Other facilities to be provided include a large costume store for the company, an extensive music library and a rental resource to theatre, TV and film production companies.

Reflecting Scottish Opera’s commitment to community and public benefit, extensive public realm improvements will front and activate the western edge of the Forth & Clyde Canal. A publicly accessible rooftop ‘hidden garden’ is included, accessed via bridge links from the canal towpath. This garden, flanked by a café space, will provide an opportunity for performance as well as quiet relaxation in this city centre location.

Scottish Opera General Director Alex Reedijk says:

“As long-term members of the creative community of North Glasgow, we at Scottish Opera are pleased that the planning committee have approved our ambitions for the Company and the wider public realm on the Maryhill spur of the Forth & Clyde canal. This approval is the next milestone on a long journey to securing a 21st century headquarters for Scottish Opera, rooting the Company in Glasgow for the next 60+ years.

“We are delighted an additional benefit will be an improvement to the canal towpath and space around it, including a public rooftop garden and café, with inspiring views across the west of Glasgow. The new building will be a place where people can come together to meet like-minded people, where an intersection with artists and the public builds a strong community spirit, with performances, outreach and education events designed to appeal to people of all ages and tastes.

“On behalf of Scottish Opera, thank you to all the individuals and organisations who have supported our vision for the future of Scottish Opera and North Glasgow. We are pleased to take the feedback from the local community on board and we acknowledge the support of the canal corridor as our ambitious plans come to fruition.”