Thursday December 18th 2025
Byer's Road in the West End.
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Sarah Hilley
Popular Byres Road has among the lowest numbers of empty premises in the country, a planning meeting heard.
The West End street has only a two per cent vacancy rate – which is “exceptionally low” compared to the Scotland average of 14 per cent. A local shop owner described the neighbourhood as “internationally renowned” and pointed out businesses in the area are proud of its success and want to see it maintained.
The vibrant street in Hillhead is home to a mix of independent shops, restaurants, pubs and other businesses located beside the cobbled Ashton Lane and near the University of Glasgow.
Speaking at a council meeting yesterday, planning consultant Graeme Laing said students help boost the city’s economy and Glasgow City Council investment has had an impact on Byres Road.
He said: “The council have also invested in Byres Road supporting environmental improvements, promoting active travel. This investment is clearly having an impact. Vacancy rates for Byres Road is amongst the lowest of any street in Scotland – two per cent compared to the national average of 14.”
Mr Laing made the comments during the planning applications committee yesterday when councillors approved a bid from the University of Glasgow to build student accommodation on the Lilybank car park.
He said: “In terms of the economy university students generate significant economic value for our city contributing to inward investment, job creation and cultural vitality.”
Cresswell Lane shop co owner John Turner also commented on the success of Byres Road as he appeared before the committee to object to the new student flats.
Mr Turner, of Janet & John Scottish Arts & Crafts, said: “Byres Road and the Lanes is an internationally renowned area famed for its wide range of unique and independent shops, hospitality venues and other businesses. As has been mentioned already our vacancy rates are exceptionally low – around three per cent compared to the average of 14 per cent nationally and we are rightfully proud of this and anxious to see it maintained.”
Mr Turner who is also the chair of Byres Road & Lanes Business Improvement District told the committee there are about 240 businesses in the area.
He voiced his opposition to the planned construction of student accommodation and pointed out concerns about loss of parking spaces due to the plan, disruption caused by building work and the design of the development.
Councillors approved the two blocks of flats amid more than 180 objections.
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