Skyscraper with student flats could be built near River Clyde

The new skyscraper (the middle of the three pictured) would be a mixed-use development

A planning application to build a large skyscraper near the River Clyde has been lodged with Glasgow City Council.

The 29-storey building would be part of a 1,129 bed, mixed-use development on Anderston Quay from property company Downing, much of which would go towards student accommodation.

Downing also say the plans would provide public realm improvements, including the creation of a public plaza, a pedestrian walkway to the east of the site, and enhanced landscaping.

The land was previously offices for several newspapers, including the Daily Record, the Sunday Mail and various local weekly titles.

The proposal would see three blocks in total built, two of which would accommodate Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) units, with the third allocated for co-living use.

The first of the two PBSA blocks – the scheme's landmark tower – would comprise 551 bedrooms across 29 storeys above ground level, and include an outdoor rooftop terrace.

The second PBSA block would house 282 bedrooms within a 10-storey building above ground floor level and also include accessible rooftop terraces.

The third block is a 13-storey building above ground level, and includes 302 co-living bedrooms, with communal spaces on every floor. The ground floor would be used as commercial retail space.

The PBSA blocks would mix cluster flats - which are bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms built around communal kitchen spaces - studios and accessible bedrooms.

The plan for the co-living block would all be studios and accessible bedrooms.

Downing say the plan would provide public realm improvements

Ian Harrison, the projects director at Downing, said: "We aim to enhance Anderston's vibrant city centre location and university connections, support Glasgow City Centre's 2030 vision, and help retain the UK's and the world's best students and young professionals."

The company added it would seek to support the local economy through sustainable procurement of products and resources.

The site forms part of Glasgow City Council's 2024-2030 City Centre Strategy, which sets out to create a well-connected place to live and work, with an emphasis on green spaces.