The transformation of a former Glasgow pub could set a benchmark for bringing other disused bar buildings back to life.
Louise Norris, Partner in our Commercial Property team, has been advising Merrylee Road Developments Limited on its conversion of the Southside site on which The White Elephant pub once stood into a Tesco convenience store.
It is a model which she believes owners of other disused pub buildings could follow as new opportunities are sought in the face of closures in recent years.
Planning permission for the jobs-generating project on Merrylee Road was granted by Glasgow City Council in the spring of 2024. Work on the conversion is in its final stages, with the new shop expected to open later this month (February).
The growing trend of pub closures and opportunities for repurposing
It was recently reported that 56 pubs across Scotland closed permanently in 2024, up from 42 in the previous year, bringing the total number of closures over the past 20 years to about 1,000.
Louise comments: “With so many local pubs closing in recent years, The White Elephant demonstrates how these buildings can be reborn, securing essential services in communities.
“The hospitality industry has had its challenges and it’s sad to see pubs close. They are the historic heart of many communities. But there are opportunities which can be seized on these sites, which are generally good sizes for redevelopment in the heart of well-established neighbourhoods.
“I can definitely see other store operators realising the benefits of working with developers to transform former pub sites across Glasgow and further afield, rather than pursuing purpose-built new stores. There’s a big drive generally to repurpose existing assets due to their prime locations."
Building a sustainable future
The transformation of The White Elephant is not just about commercial gain – it’s about revitalising communities. The new Tesco store will offer a range of groceries, fresh produce, and essential items, ensuring that local residents have convenient access to key services. Parking spaces and electric vehicle charging points have also been included in the plans, making it a forward-thinking development.
As Scotland navigates shifting economic landscapes, the repurposing of disused buildings, particularly in well-connected neighbourhoods, will play a key role in sustainable urban regeneration. If the White Elephant project proves successful, it may serve as a blueprint for similar developments across the country.
For now, all eyes are on Glasgow’s Southside, where a once-popular pub is about to embark on its next chapter - bringing jobs, convenience, and a new lease of life to the community.
First published in Scottish Business News
7 February 2025
