This summer sees the completion of a £4m construction project on The Briggait Clydeside Market Halls that restores over 1,200sqm of derelict market halls in this iconic ‘A’ listed building. Two additional halls – built in 1899 and 1904 – return to public use, along with a revamped Clyde Street riverside entrance with a new café and retail/hospitality outlet.
Built around the original 17th Century Merchant House and Steeple, The Briggait was established in 1873 as Glasgow’s first purpose-built fish market, inspired by the famous food market Les Halles in Paris. It had many uses over the years, including as a shopping centre, before falling into a long period of disrepair.
However, since 2010 The Briggait complex has been managed and run by the charity Workshop and Artists Studio Provision Scotland Ltd (Wasps). Wasps have fifty years’ experience of redeveloping neglected historic buildings across Scotland, converting them into affordable studio facilities for artists, makers, creative industries, social enterprises and charities.
Since taking over the historic ‘A’ listed building, Wasps have undertaken the regeneration of around half of the floorspace, including the original 1873 Hall.
However, a £4m project, funded by Historic Environment Scotland, The Scottish Government, UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Glasgow City Council, Scottish Landfill Community Fund and Glasgow City Heritage Trust, is due to be completed this summer 2024 that restores two additional market halls – added in 1899 and 1904 – that have been derelict for decades. This will transform 1,200 sqm of unused space into an exciting riverside destination for events, food and drink, markets, performances and exhibitions. The Briggait Clydeside Market Halls will return the oldest surviving collection of market halls in Scotland to public use for the first time in 50 years.
“The Briggait is already established as a vibrant hub for the arts and the completion of this project will reinforce its position as a cornerstone in Glasgow’s cultural landscape. We look forward to welcoming you to this amazing building.” – Audrey Carlin, Wasps Studios CEO
New business opportunities in Central Glasgow to work with Wasps Studios
There are three new business opportunities available as a result of the project. Wasps will be looking to appoint an operator for its new café (located within the new main reception/Clyde Street entrance) as well someone to run the new Corner unit on the riverside frontage (which has potential for uses including food and drink, retail).
It is expected that the three Halls – 1873, 1899 and 1904 – will be in demand for exhibitions, food and drink markets, fashion and vintage markets. Wasps will be looking for an events management and delivery partner to help them maximise the usage of the halls.
To download the Tender Opportunities information or register your interest, please visit the BTS website here.
