Bid to create floating city restaurant
A FLOATING restaurant is planned at the Finnieston Crane to meet the growing demand from people attending the Hydro and SECC.
Derek Mallon, managing director of Clydeside Restaurants, is hoping to get permission to moor the new visitor attraction on the river close to the venues.
He said it “seemed like a good idea to celebrate the river”.
A FLOATING restaurant is planned at the historic Finnieston Crane to meet the growing demand from people attending the Hydro and SECC.
Derek Mallon, managing director of Clydeside Restaurants, is hoping to get permission to moor the new visitor attraction on the river close to the venues.
A report to planners says the new restaurant will increase the awareness and attractiveness of the crane with options for lighting it in the future.
Mr Mallon said: “The idea of a floating restaurant exists in different parts of the world, Brooklyn being quite a famous one.
“Glasgow has such a fantastic tradition of building around the Clyde with new developments including the BBC, STV and Hydro.
“It seemed like a good idea to be celebrating the river which has been so special to the city for a very long time.”
Mr Mallon, who has worked in the restaurant business for around 25 years, said if the new restaurant gets the go-ahead it will be premium dining with an emphasis on sourcing as much local produce as possible.
He added: “We want to celebrate and showcase Scotland’s produce and talent but the restaurant will be accessible to most people.”
A report to councillors says the population of the Clyde waterfront is steadily increasing, bringing activity and life to many parts of the river, making local community services, shops, cafes and bars viable propositions.
As the new restaurant will be moored below the low waterline it does not need planning permission but does need permission to create the moorings, associated works and parking.
The report says the scheme will boost the SECC campus and offer a wider range of services to local residents and people attending events and concerts at the Hydro.
It adds: “The proposal will have no adverse impact on Clydeside views or historic buildings and has been designed to enhance activities on the river.
“The development is supported by Glasgow Harbour and will have no adverse impact on navigation but will offer increased opportunity for water transport.”