The former John Watson & Company print works in Glasgow is to be redeveloped as student accommodation and office space following its sale to developers Watkin Jones.

The planned development at Kyle, Calgary and Stafford Streets, will comprise student accommodation of around 300 bedrooms, ancillary accommodation, amenity space and parking.

The 0.85-acre site became available as a result of the sale of John Watson & Company to Multi-Colour Corporation, which is head quartered in Ohio, USA, and its subsequent move to a new build Centre of Excellence in Clydebank.

John Watson OBE, former owner of the business, said: “We operated very successfully from Kyle Street since the early 1970s, so its sale represents the end of an era. On the other hand, it please me greatly that the site will be re-born as student accommodation serving what will be the next generation of educated business people in Glasgow and the rest of the country.”

Graeme Todd of DM Hall, who oversaw the sale, said: “The property was sold at a closing date with several offers generated by a marketing campaign which had the benefit of an existing planning consent for a student accommodation development.

“Whilst there is much talk and debate about continuing demand for student accommodation development, our marketing of Kyle Street generated considerable interest, particularly as the site had so much to commend it, being close to the city centre, the motorway and a short walking distance from major bus and rail links.

“Demolition of the old printing works is imminent and the development should be projected for completion in August 2019.”