‘Financially viable’

DR Susan O’Connor, director of the Scottish Civic Trust, said a priority would be ensuring the building is financially viable.

“We are in a unique position where we are now thinking of what the city centre is going to be like in light of the climate crisis and pandemic,” she added.

“Inside, the Egyptian Halls are quite ‘open plan’ which means it is very flexible as well as being very beautiful. It’s an exciting opportunity.”

The business plan, funded by Glasgow City Heritage Trust and the Architectural Heritage Fund, paves the way for the group to approach the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic Environment Scotland and Levelling Up Fund for help to take the building into public ownership.

Property developer and co-owner Mr Souter said: “Any activity which raises awareness of the opportunities to both preserve and return the Egyptian to a sustainable and commercial future is welcomed.

“USP and USI – the co-owners – have again reached out to the Scottish Civic Trust offering to brief on a private and confidential basis on the current structural state, current scheme options, project costs to afford them the opportunity to maximise the budget they have secured.”