Urban regeneration specialist Vita Group has announced a series of consultation events as it starts to shape plans for the ‘gateway to the Golden Z’.

James Rooke, head of planning for Vita Group, said: “As we start to formulate our ideas for this important landmark and engage stakeholders, we’re keen to canvas opinion and gain support from the community. Our aim is to regenerate this anchor site, bringing forward exciting plans for a vibrant food destination on the ground floor which celebrates community, creates a building which interjects with the adjacent buildings and importantly complements the framework set out for the Golden Z.”

Developed under Vita Group’s pioneering new brand House of Social, the ground floor could include a bustling destination food hall which will allow Glasgow’s concept restaurants to introduce their brand to the city and build a following. Above this will be a provision for student accommodation.

The first public consultation event will take place on 13 February 2024 at the Renfield Training Centre, 260 Bath St between 3-7pm. Initial plans will also be available to view online from 13 February on the consultation website.

James Rooke, head of planning for Vita Group, added: “Glasgow’s undersupply of student accommodation is well documented and continues to impact on Glasgow’s rental market, reducing available homes across the city. With this proposal, we aim to reduce this shortfall in available accommodation with homes specifically designed around the needs’ of students in their second and third year who tend to find their way into the residential rental landscape.”

The site sits between Sauchiehall St and Glasgow School of Art’s Mackintosh Building. The C-listed building was badly damaged by the massive blaze which broke out in the Mackintosh building in June 2018.

Design proposals include an Urban Park providing a space for all whilst respecting the world-famous Mackintosh architecture.

Over the last decade, Vita Group has a history of investing in Glasgow with an existing residence, Vita Student West End and a second proposal for a site India Street which includes affordable housing and student accommodation currently going through planning.

Stuart Patrick, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce chief executive, said: “Sauchiehall Street has been identified as one of the biggest challenges we face, and the ABC is just one of the many current blights on this vital artery which highlight the scale of that challenge.

“It has, as a result, been singled out in the Council’s Golden Z report as deserving top priority for regeneration and renewal, so it is with open arms that we welcome Vita’s plans.

“Their track record speaks for itself, and we see this as a major step forward in the city’s regeneration journey.”