Working in partnership with CCG (Scotland) Ltd and MAST Architects, joint proposals from Partick Housing Association and Hanover Scotland for ‘The Sawmills’, taking its name from the Temple Hills Sawmill that once occupied the site in the 1930s, include the demolition of the former Canal Bar and Restaurant – vacant since 2004 – and the new build construction of 46 one and two-bedroom affordable flats spread across two blocks.  

Upon completion, 24 amenity flats within the development – especially designed for older people - will be managed by Hanover. In addition, there will be a mix of private and communal green space and resident parking.

The development has been designed to meet the ‘Glasgow Standard’ of space and energy efficiency compliance.

CCG director Calum Murray said: “The proposals for ‘The Sawmills’ were derived after an extensive period of assessment by our Design Team who tested and exhausted every avenue to retain the building – a part of which is category C-listed.

“Our assessment evidenced that, because of the significant state of disrepair, the retention of the building in any form was not economically viable. Instead, the building will be replaced by a contemporary and sustainable low-carbon development that will address key strategic objectives of Glasgow City Council by improving the supply of affordable housing in the west of the city.

“The Sawmills is the latest of many initiatives to contribute towards and take advantage from The Glasgow Canal Project – real change is taking place around and along the canal, creating a safe and enjoyable outdoor space, and a positive resource which will help breathe new life and vitality into local communities. Never has this been more necessary.

“As a new gateway to Glasgow, ‘The Sawmills’ has the potential to be a very exciting development and we look forward to continuing our partnership with Partick Housing Association with a view to commencing construction in mid-2021.”

Partick HA chief executive, Stewart MacKenzie, said: “At Partick Housing Association, we’re committed to providing more high quality and affordable homes within the West End.  We’re delighted to be working with partners to bring this key site in Anniesland to life to meet local housing needs.”

Hanover Scotland director for asset management, Mark Ferey, added: “Hanover are delighted to be working in partnership with both Partick HA and CCG to deliver much needed amenity housing for older people in the Anniesland area.”