Action and ambition can further transform
Glasgow’s real estate landscapeCOMMENT
To find out how Shoosmiths can help your business call 03700 86 3000
or visit http://www.shoosmiths.co.ukBarry McKeownIN JUST 50 years, Glasgow
has undergone significant
post-industrial change. Yet
as we enter a new decade,
from a real estate perspective
I’d argue the ‘dear green
place’ that is Scotland’s
largest city can ill afford to
rest on its laurels if it’s to
achieve further ambitious
transformation.
Glasgow currently enjoys
the highest economic
growth and development
in Scotland, driven in part
by an ability to attract and
retain skilled workers and to
provide appealing real estate
for the hi-tech and service
sectors.
Notably, major businesses
have made commitments
to Glasgow. Recent large
occupiers include Barclays
and Morgan Stanley and
national law firm Shoosmiths
has also established a
presence. It reflects a
recognition by decision
makers that for businesses, a
willingness to embrace place-
making and connectivity is
as relevant as price.
Employers and employees
alike now demand an
environment where they can
live and work in a sustainable
and productive way. Privatereal estate developers
have responded, creating
functional spaces that aim
to connect into Glasgow’s
business and social fabric.
There are signs that
transport connectivity and
sustainability are at the heart
of the decision making of
a city that was the first in
Scotland to introduce a
low-emission zone and is
competing with Edinburgh
to become the UK’s first
carbon ‘net zero’ city. It’s
rolling out a fleet of electric
buses to serve key routes as
it prepares to host the UN
COP Summit and Glasgow
City Council has announced
funding for a metro link
to connect the city with
Glasgow Airport.
These are welcome
announcements but the real
challenge is deliverability.
For it isn’t the first time a
rail link to the airport, in
particular, has been mooted.
If Glasgow is to continue to
attract premium occupiers
and talent, it now has to
further deliver on its vision.
That includes a city with
a sustainable transport
network fit for the 2020s and
beyond. A city that is ‘green’
in more ways than one.Barry McKeown is a real estate
partner with Shoosmiths in GlasgowSCOTLAND’S
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