Councillor Kenny McLean, who is city convener for neighbourhoods, housing and public realm, was joined for the ceremony by developer Grant Stafford Borthwick and main contractor Clark Contracts along with representatives from the design team and construction industry professionals, including Jewitt and Wilkie Architects.

Clark Contracts completed the site enabling works in July and have now begun the construction of 54 residential apartments, a tenant car park, bike storage facilities and a 2,500 sq.ft. commercial unit.

Andrew Borthwick, director at Grant Stafford Borthwick, said: “I am very pleased to be working with Clark Contracts, one of Scotland’s leading contractors, to deliver such a welcome addition to the unfolding story of the High Street / Bell Street regeneration which continues to underpin the wider Merchant City progress.”

Michael Scanlan, director at Clark Contracts, added: “We are looking forward to collaborating with new customer, Grant Stafford Borthwick on this exciting residential development and supporting the overall Merchant City regeneration.”