Area Characteristics

The cosmopolitan nature of the area is reflected in the diversity of activity on both sides of the River. On the north bank, the St Enoch area, including Argyle Street, Trongate and the St Enoch Shopping Centre, is an integral part of the thriving City Centre. While retailing is the dominant activity, the mixed nature of the area is emphasised by the presence of the Arts Quarter centred on King Street (including the Tron Theatre), and several prominent residential and leisure developments. Punctuating this commercial activity is the historic Roman Catholic Cathedral overlooking the Clyde. The north bank includes the important transport nodes of Central and Argyle Street railway stations and the St Enoch Underground station. Strong developer interest in the area is being complemented by the City Centre Public Realm Programme involving improvements to Argyle Street, Trongate and the creation of a new civic space at St Enoch Square.

To the south of the River is the Laurieston residential neighbourhood which is dominated by four multi-storey blocks and includes a number of strategic sites. The development of these sites for residential and other complementary uses will consolidate Laurieston as a desirable location and sustainable neighbourhood. Laurieston benefits from physical and perceived links with the City Centre, Crown Street and the River walkway. The area also includes the Citizens’ Theatre, the Central Mosque and Islamic Centre, the City’s Sheriff Court and the Georgian terrace at Carlton Place, now restored for office use.