Developer given green light to demolish foundry

AN “ICONIC” brass foundry building in Glasgow’s West End has been given the green light to be demolished, despite opposition from residents and local politicians.

Developer Nevis Properties Ltd submitted a planning application last October to convert the building at 131 Minerva Street, in Finnieston, into a 10-storey residential development.

While planners are still to approve the development, Glasgow City Council confirmed it granted a building warrant application for demolition.

It comes after objections from more than 50 residents, as well as disapproval from local politicians.

Despite not being listed or part of a conservation area, they argue the brass foundry would be an important part of the city’s ship-building heritage.

However, the developer said the project would create significant economic benefits, adding £2m per year to the city’s economy, and more than £2.6m to the regional construction industry.

Glasgow Labour MSP Paul Sweeney said: “The decision to allow the old foundry in Finnieston to be demolished is just the latest hammer blow to Glasgow’s heritage.

“There is absolutely no excuse and as far as I am aware there are no concerns about the structural integrity of the building or its current use as office studios.”

The MSP stated that the developer “would rather demolish it and build soulless flats than renovate it”.

He added: “[It’s] the last example of its type in the city and an icon of our shipbuilding heritage. It’s perverse, and we need a serious rethink at all levels of government as to how we stop it from happening.

“Enough is enough, it’s time for Glasgow’s politicians, those who are supposed to protect and enhance our built environment, to stand up and show leadership in defence of our city’s built environment.”

Scottish Greens councillor Christy Mearns had also objected to the development, with a letter sent to planners stating there was “no justification” to demolish it in its entirety.

When approached, the developer said there was no imminent date for demolition.