Re-development Potential for Disused Govan Offices
12 November 2008
A study by Ryden could trigger the re-development of the disused former Fairfield Shipyard offices on the River Clyde in Govan, Glasgow.
The study, which was commissioned by commercial landlord Govan Workspace Limited, found that there was potential demand for offices at the property from the local business community, the public sector and the creative and specialist technical industries. The building’s heritage, architectural and maritime connections were identified by Ryden as particularly attractive features to the latter two industries.
Following these findings, funding of around £4m is being sought from a number of statutory and heritage bodies including Historic Scotland, Glasgow City Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund to save the building from its current dilapidation and create a modern office complex of eleven suites totalling over 16,000 sq ft and a local heritage centre.
The building, which is Category A Listed, was designed in 1890 by architect John Keppie, and served as the main offices for the Fairfield Shipyard until 2001 when it was deemed surplus to requirements. Since then the premises have been vacant and have fallen into disrepair.
Pat Cassidy, Govan Workspace Managing Director said: “The Fairfield building is currently on the Government’s Building at Risk Register; however, it has great potential for re-development. We needed specialist advice on the local office market to identify likely demand, and Ryden was able to assist with this straight away”.
Iain Wardrop, Associate in Ryden’s Consulting Group commented: “This is a well known building and deserves to be saved for the local community. Moreover if the re-development goes ahead it will create job opportunities and bring an interesting local education resource to the area, which is great.”
