Plans have been unveiled for a Grade A refurbishment of one of Glasgow’s most iconic and centrally located buildings.

Investment firm EPIC UK has appointed contractors GHI Contracts to provide 46,464 sq ft of Grade A office space at 9 George Square with suites ranging in size from 3,742 sq ft to 7,169 sq ft along with 17 basement car parking spaces.

Work has already started on site.

A new look reception foyer with new lifts will lead to lobby areas and completely refurbished open plan accommodation on the second, third, sixth and seventh floors including energy efficient LED lighting and new toilet and shower facilities.

A second phase of work which will encompass the fourth, fifth and ninth floors will complete in Spring 2016.

Built in 1922, the former McLaren Warehouse and Repository was redeveloped behind a retained facade in 1998, with two additional floors added to extend the building to ten floors.

The B-listed Chicago School style facade is one of many landmarks designs from James Miller, who was also responsible for buildings such as the Bank of Scotland Headquarters Building at 110 St Vincent Street, Wemyss Bay Railway Station, Glasgow Royal Infirmary Hospital and the 5-star Turnberry Hotel.

It is located in the very heart of the city, close to the City Chambers, Queen Street Railway Station and the city’s prime retail destination Buchanan Street. The floors have fantastic views across George Square.

Andy Cunningham, partner, at Cushman & Wakefield, will be jointly marketing the building with Ewan Cameron of Ryden.

He said: “EPIC’s decision to invest in such a comprehensive refurbishment of 9 George Square is a real vote of confidence in the Glasgow office market. The timing could not be better as the city centre is about to witness a flurry of activity as we move into the second half of the year. The specification being employed by EPIC and their design team is very high quality and I am confident the space will be well received by occupiers and their advisors.”

Ewan Cameron, partner, Ryden added: “You would be hard pressed to find a better location – fronting George Square, opposite Queen Street Station and adjacent to Glasgow City Chambers, the building is also surrounded by up market restaurants, the Gallery of Modern Art and the main shopping/leisure areas of Buchanan Street and the Merchant City. I am sure it will appeal to professional firms and corporate occupiers who will appreciate its location in the heart of the city centre.”