Thursday March 5th 2026
Plans to convert Partick Methodist Church have been submitted to Glasgow City Council (image from the Engine Works' planning application)
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Drew Sandelands
Plans to convert a former Partick church which was facing demolition into an arts and events venue have been given the go ahead.
The owners of the Engine Works — an events space in Maryhill — have secured permission to restore the old Methodist church on Dumbarton Road.
Planners at Glasgow City Council approved an application to “rescue and reimagine” the building to create the West Works, with over £1.6m expected to be invested.
Documents suggest the building would become a “welcoming venue for weddings, events, arts, filming, and community gatherings — supporting local culture and economic growth”.
A demolition warrant for the site has previously been approved, but the application from current owners, Michael McDonagh and Adele Gahagan McDonagh, stated their plan will “save the building for future generations to embrace”.
Glasgow MSP Paul Sweeney, Labour, submitted a letter of support, which added the project “will preserve the heritage of the site and breathe new life into the building”.
He said: “While it is unfortunate that there is no longer a congregation at the church, it is welcome that the team behind The Engine Works venue, based in Maryhill, are looking to achieve an adaptive reuse of the Partick Methodist Church building.
“The team has a proven track record in architectural restoration at The Engine Works, which has successfully hosted everything from local weddings to global brands and cultural institutions. They operate sensitively, responsibly and respect the building’s heritage.”
Plans stated the Engine Works — a restored warehouse — was “carefully brought back to life over four years and is now one of Scotland’s most respected venues”. It has hosted firms like Rolex, Netflix, Amazon and Soho House.
Plans for the churches exterior (image from the Engine Works' planning application)
The application added: “We now bring that same care and commitment to Partick Methodist Church. Once marked for demolition, we saw enduring potential in its fabric and story.
“We believe this project aligns with the regeneration goals of both Glasgow and Partick and should set a new benchmark for the thoughtful reuse of our historic buildings.”
Single-storey extensions are planned to the sides of the building, which would have a capacity of 300. Most guests would be expected to arrive by coach or public transport, but five parking spaces would be available on site and another 20 nearby via private lease.
There was one objection to the application, which raised concerns over parking. It said the parking situation is already “unacceptable for residents who struggle to park at all times”, adding the area is “also highly congested and gridlocked”.
Plans show a Grand Hall is proposed for filming, arts performances, weddings, and events while the Vestry would be a “two-level space designed for workshops, exhibitions, and meetings, with the option to partition for privacy”.
The Ivy Tower would include a ground-floor catering kitchen, staff office, and wheelchair-accessible elevator as well as two VIP rooms and restrooms on the first-floor. A Hidden Garden is also planned.
The plans continued: “With care and respect, the West Works will rescue and reimagine Partick Methodist Church — a much-loved local landmark dating back to 1881 — as a vibrant arts and events space for a new generation.
“This change of use is essential to secure the long-term future of the building and deliver meaningful public value.”
The applicants said the transformation will “support jobs, create opportunities, and contribute to Partick’s ongoing renewal — just as we’ve seen at The Engine Works in Maryhill”.
“Our aim is to bring together local talent and international partners, welcoming musical theatre, global brands, film productions, and a return to weddings in a space where love and community once thrived.”
Mr Sweeney added: “The project would bring the potential for local employment, cultural activity, and increased footfall, delivering meaningful investment to a part of Partick that would benefit greatly.”
A condition of the planning permission states the premises will be able to be used from 8am to midnight, Monday to Sunday.
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