WORK is to get underway to transform a historic building in Dalmarnock in Glasgow’s east end into two modern office units.
The latest phase at the former Purifier Shed sees Clyde Gateway invest £6 million to deliver the first two of a total of five commercial office and creative hubs at the newly branded EastWorks development.
Clark Contracts has been appointed main contractor and will convert the former gas purifier shed and adjoining meter house at Poplin Street.
EastWorks is one of five Victorian industrial buildings remaining in the area, dating back to 1891. Clyde Gateway has invested in work to protect the fabric and structure of the former purifier shed, including a new roof, replacing protective coatings for the cast iron and steel frame and conserving the brickwork.
Clyde Gateway revealed the project is one of a number being brought forward which will support SMEs and jobs in the construction industry and assist wider economic recovery. The contract will support up to 70 jobs during construction alone.
Working with Sheppard Robson and Inch Architecture & Design, the first two units will provide 1,365 sqm of office space over ground and mezzanine levels with shower/changing facilities, locker storage and break-out spaces, together with a new access road, parking, bike racks and landscaping. It is expected the first two units will create over 100 jobs for the area and, once the five standalone business studios are complete, the 3,816 sqm site will support up to 300 jobs.
Martin McKay, executive director at Clyde Gateway said, “EastWorks will offer modern, flexible offices and creative hubs for businesses and we are expecting a great deal of interest in this dynamic new space. This building offers a great deal of historical importance to Dalmarnock and we are thrilled to be able to reinvent and accommodate commercial business use to such a well-known and well-liked building right beside Dalmarnock Station and minutes on the train from the city centre.”
Gordon Cunningham, MD of Clark Contracts added, “We’re delighted to build on our strong relationship with Clyde Gateway as we start work transforming the former Purifier Studios into what will become a unique and contemporary new business environment. We are also working with Clyde Gateway on building new office pavilions at Rutherglen Links Business Park and Bridgeton Civic Hub so it’s exciting to be part of this flourishing area’s continued growth and success.”
