As the Japanese proverb states: ‘vision without action is a daydream’, and while Glasgow has significant potential, we must continue to drive the city forward and keep delivering the right real estate in order to remain relevant. 

The key will be innovation and growth to drive new demand for Glasgow’s places and spaces. In short, we need these places for people to live, work and play - all in equal measure. 

Why ESG is key

Most people aspire to live in a place they are proud to call home and they can afford to maintain. But there is also a need for a greater focus on sustainability:  the demand being placed on Scotland’s housing sector is not insubstantial and is already resulting in some of the most energy efficient housing stock in the UK.

Glasgow’s office market attracts a significant range of businesses. Again, ESG has played a large role in the innovation of commercial buildings, particularly when it comes to what occupiers want. This has changed since the pandemic, with a renewed focus on employee productivity and wellbeing. It’s now all about the ‘experiential office’, mirroring trends already seen in the retail sector.

Innovation will drive innovation 

Sectors like technology and life sciences will drive the city forwards, but to do this we need to deliver the facilities to support the growth of both new and existing businesses. Likewise, higher education plays a role, with Glasgow now home to over 92,000 students, the third highest population in the UK. Student accommodation is significantly undersupplied and thousands of new beds are required to address current demand and future growth. This is key in order to retain young graduates and attract new talent to the city from across the globe. 

Retail’s transformation 

Glasgow’s retail offer has also been on its own journey of transformation, responding to changing consumer habits. The St Enoch Centre is probably the best example of this, creating a mixed-use focal point in the heart of the city that feels relevant once again. 

What next?

Glasgow has huge potential to compete with leading European cities and become a truly sustainable destination to live, work, play and visit. The raft of announcements aimed at making this happen - from innovation funding to new policies and strategies like National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4), the Low Emission Zone (LEZ) and the Golden Z - have come thick and fast.

However, ultimately collaboration and accountability, resulting in action, among all those with a stake in Glasgow’s built environment, will be essential if these innovations are to become more than just a  daydream.

Further information

Contact David Cobban

In Perspective: How can we innovate Glasgow's real estate?