Sandy & James Easdale Get Green Light For Rejuvenation Of Former Watt Brothers Store

News

19 Mar

L-R: Sandy and James Easdale at Watt Bros store in Glasgow

Planning permission has been granted for the regeneration of the historic Watt Brothers store in Glasgow city centre by Sandy and James Easdale.

The leading Scottish businessmen have been given the go-ahead to transform the former department store into a hotel comprising approximately 100 guestrooms.

Sandy Easdale said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive planning permission for this landmark development, which represents a major vote of confidence in Glasgow city centre at a critical time.

“The former Watt Brothers building has stood as an iconic part of Glasgow’s story for more than a century, and this investment will breathe new life into it - transforming a long-vacant site into a high-quality destination that brings jobs, visitors and renewed economic activity back to Sauchiehall Street.

"This project shows what can be achieved when heritage and regeneration go hand in hand."

James Easdale said: “This is a hugely significant step forward - not just for this building, but for the wider regeneration of Glasgow city centre.

“Our plans will see substantial private investment delivered into the heart of the city, creating employment during construction and long-term jobs once the hotel is operational, while increasing footfall and supporting surrounding businesses. This is about turning a prominent empty building into a catalyst for wider renewal and confidence in Glasgow’s future.

“We have worked closely with partners to ensure the development respects the building’s architectural heritage while creating a sustainable new use that will keep it active for generations to come.

“We would like to extend our thanks to Danny Hazelehurst and Peter Tisdale of THAT Group for their invaluable support and expertise in securing planning consent. Their professionalism, strategic insight, and commitment throughout the process were instrumental in navigating the planning system.

“We also appreciate the constructive input from stakeholders throughout the process, which has helped us reach this positive outcome.”