SWG3 bids to create rooftop workspace studios after ‘ dropping’ restaurant plans

ARTS and entertainment space SWG3 is planning to create rooftop workspace studios on top of the venue, after dropping plans for a restaurant.

Permission had previously been granted for a rooftop restaurant at 100 Eastvale Place but the firm has now applied to the council to alter the plans.

It wants to offer a “variety of differently sized studios, social spaces and amenity spaces within a rooftop extension”.

These would “cater for the rising interest to be part of SWG3’ s unique campus ‘ family’”, the application states.

The project is part of an ongoing investment programme which was triggered by SWG3’ s purchase of land surrounding the existing complex.

“The aim of the proposals is to complement and enhance SWG3’ s existing offer, with a particular focus on furthering SWG3 as a daytime destination with the provision of quality studio accommodation and open space,” the plans state.

SWG3 hosts a range of indoor and outdoor music and arts events as well as cultural and political gatherings, such as the New York Times Climate Hub during COP26.

Plans submitted to the council claim the venue is “integral to the growing business and creative community on Eastvale Place which is contributing to the wider regeneration of Yorkhill and Finnieston”.

“Alongside their economic contribution to the city, SWG3 plays an important role in supporting the creative industries sector and SWG3 is an essential part of the Scottish arts and music industry ecosystem; a place where artists perform and where talent is developed.”

The extension would include 14 individual studios of varying sizes, a shared meeting room, a communal breakout space and a shared kitchen space.

There would be an external walkway with “scenic views across Glasgow and the Clyde” and new stairs, linking the studios to a recently completed garden terrace.

Designs show a “sawtooth roof” which is claimed to evoke “the industrial past the whole SWG3 campus has grown from”.