Planning

The Social, Royal Exchange Square

Brief

Keppie Planning and Development was instructed by G1 Group Plc in autumn 2008 to provide expert town planning advice in respect of Glasgow City Council's refusal of temporary planning permission for the renewal of two outdoor seating areas at The Social, Royal Exchange Square.

Response

Keppie Planning and Development undertook a detailed review of the case and submitted an appeal to Scottish Ministers (Directorate for Planning and Environmental Appeals) in September 2008.  The Council's reasons for refusing the application related to the amenity and ambiance of Royal Exchange Square and the creation of 'visual clutter' within a Conservation Area.  Our review of the case highlighted a number of complex issues.  Not only was the site located within an Outstanding Conservation Area but it was also within the setting of a number of Category A and B listed buildings.  The type of license that was held by the venue was also queried.  It was requested that the appeal be heard at a Public Local Inquiry (PLI).  Scottish Ministers agreed that a PLI would be the best way for the case to be heard and a 3-day PLI took place in February 2009.  Working with the appellant’s appointed legal advisors, Keppie Planning and Development prepared the Grounds of Appeal, Statement of Case and collated relevant Productions for the Inquiry in order to ensure our Client had the best standing possible.  Keppie Planning and Development also acted as Expert Witness for the appellant during the Inquiry process.  This involved the preparation of a detailed Precognition, providing expert planning advice and responding to cross-examination from both Glasgow City Council and an Objector.

Outcome

In April 2009 the allocated Reporter advised his decision that the appeal should be upheld and planning permission granted for the two seating areas, subject to a number of Conditions.  Full costs were also awarded to the appellant, as it was agreed that Glasgow City council had acted unreasonably during their original determination of the application.

Team