Plan to turn Glasgow church into arts venue given go-ahead

Plans to convert a former Glasgow church into an arts and events venue have been given the go-ahead.

The owners of the Engine Works events space in the city's Maryhill area have secured permission to restore the old Methodist church on Dumbarton Road in Partick, which was facing demolition.

Planners at Glasgow City Council have approved an application to "rescue and reimagine" the building to create the West Works. More than £1.6m is expected to be invested into the new venue.

Documents state that the building will host weddings, events, arts, filming, and community gatherings, which the owners say will support local culture and economic growth.

A demolition warrant for the site had previously been approved, but the application from the current owners - Michael McDonagh and Adele Gahagan McDonagh - said the plan would "save the building for future generations to embrace".

Glasgow MSP Paul Sweeney submitted a letter of support, which added that the project "will preserve the heritage of the site and breathe new life into the building".

He said: "The team has a proven track record in architectural restoration at The Engine Works, which has successfully hosted everything from local weddings to global brands and cultural institutions.

"They operate sensitively, responsibly and respect the building's heritage."

Plans said the Engine Works - a restored warehouse - was "carefully brought back to life over four years and is now one of Scotland's most respected venues". It has hosted firms such as Rolex, Netflix, Amazon and Soho House.

The application added that the owners intended to bring the "same care and commitment to Partick Methodist Church" and that they saw "enduring potential in its fabric and story".

Single-storey extensions are planned to the sides of the building, which would have a capacity of 300.

Most guests would be expected to arrive by coach or public transport, but five parking spaces would be available on site and another 20 nearby via private lease.

Plans show a Grand Hall is proposed for filming, arts performances, weddings, and events while the vestry will become a two-level space designed for workshops, exhibitions, and meetings.

The Ivy Tower would include a ground-floor catering kitchen, staff office, and wheelchair-accessible elevator as well as two VIP rooms and restrooms on the first floor. A hidden garden is also planned.

Sweeney added that the project brought potential for local employment, cultural activity, and increased footfall.

There was one objection to the application, which raised concerns over parking.

A condition of the planning permission states that the premises will be able to be used from 08:00 until midnight, Monday to Sunday.

Story by Local Democracy reporter Drew Sandelands.