George Square redesign decision postponed after panel fails to pick a winner

Published on 17/01/2013 14:03

THE future look of Glasgow’s George Square was undecided today after the jury charged with choosing a design plan failed to agree.

• 6 designs have been submitted from firms across the world

• Final decision now expected next week

An announcement was due tomorrow on which of six short-listed firms will be awarded the £15 million redevelopment project.

The jury members have been unable to reach a decision and will meet again next week, Glasgow City Council said.

Council leader Gordon Matheson said: “It’s disappointing but it’s important that we get this right. We will make a decision next week.”

The shortlist comprises designs by French architects Agence Ter, US-based James Corner Field Operations and UK firms Burns + Nice, Gustafson Porter, JM Architects and John McAslan & Partners.

A total of 35 entries were received from around the globe.

The square, which dates back to the 18th century, was once regarded as Glasgow’s “Grand Place” but has deteriorated to a state where the “loss of status and dignity is all too apparent”, according to a council report published in September.

It is hoped that the redesign will return grandeur to the city centre and enhance Glasgow’s reputation on the international stage.

The 13 statues and monuments that stand in the square are to be moved to other sites in the city while the area is redeveloped ahead of the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Mr Matheson is on the judging panel, along with David Mackay of MBM Architects Barcelona, Professor Andy McMillan, former head of Mackintosh School of Architecture at Glasgow School of Art, David Harding, the school’s former head of environmental art, and Geoff Ellis, director of DF Concerts.

The panel’s technical adviser is Neil Baxter from The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS).