Demolition is a concept familiar to Glaswegians, and some of the city’s lost buildings are more missed than others.
Over the years, many structures that once dominated the skyline have been razed to the ground - with locals becoming accustomed to their presence. Some were iconic, and some were known for all the wrong reasons.
With many of Glasgow’s buildings branded eyesores from the time they were constructed, residents welcomed the demolition of a few. That being said, everyone has different connections with buildings - and opinions varied.
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We’ve had a look at some buildings that Glasgow saw demolished, and was happy to say goodbye to.
Red Road Flats
An infamous feature of Glasgow’s skyline, the Red Road Flats were built in the ‘60s and were initially welcomed by the city with people flooding in from crowded tenements. By the ‘70s, the buildings had earned a reputation for crime.
The eight multi-storey blocks of steel frame were all demolished in 2015, dividing opinion across the city. Some argued the demolition was an attack on social housing, while some were happy to see the structure tumble.
Queen Street Station
Demolition of the former Queen Street Station came in 2017, ahead of a major £120m refurbishment.
Some argue the new station is just as much of an eyesore, while others were happy to see the end of the former building.
Hutchesontown C
The centrepiece of Queen Elizabeth Square, Hutchesontown C contained 400 homes.
The flats had become riddled with damp and infestations, they were demolished in 1993. While the demolition was welcomed, the contractor used twice the amount of explosives necessary - killing a female spectator in the process.
On September 12, 1993, Glasgow City Council invited locals and the media to witness to building come down and 61-year-old Helen Tinney was hit by debris and died, while four others were injured.
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Corunna House
Many thought of Cadogan Street as seedy once upon a time, before Corunna House was demolished to make way for The Grid.
The black glass building was an eyesore to many, and came tumbling down in 2018.
Former Strathclyde Police Headquarters
Under plans approved by Glasgow City Council in March 2018, the former Strathclyde Police headquarters were torn down to make way for rental housing.
The six-storey office block was built in 1923, and housed the headquarters from 1975 until the merger of the eight Scottish Police Forces in 2013.
What Every Woman Wants
This Argyle Street building was once much loved, as the original flagship for the What Every Woman Wants store.
The category B listed building had been vacant for over 20 years prior to its demolition, and despite once being a stunning feature of Glasgow - had fallen into a state of disrepair. Developers Osborne and Co said at the time: “We have been advised by conservation specialists that it is not worthwhile or possible to repair this building due to the condition of its facade and architectural significance.”
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