Green Light for Glasgow: Buchanan Bus Station Set for Major Makeover

Plans to transform Glasgow’s Buchanan Bus Station into a modern, multi-use transport hub have been approved, marking a significant step forward for one of Scotland’s busiest travel gateways.

Glasgow City Council has given the go-ahead to a masterplan developed by AtkinsRéalis, which sets out a vision to redevelop the site into a transport-led mixed-use destination. The decision, made on 21 April, will guide future development across the bus station and the surrounding Cowcaddens area.

The proposals aim to go far beyond a simple station upgrade. Alongside a new multimodal interchange for buses, the scheme includes housing, student accommodation, office space, retail and hotel facilities—creating a more vibrant and connected part of the city.

Public spaces are also a key feature of the plan, with new green areas and improved pedestrian routes designed to enhance accessibility. A landscaped bridge linking Killermont Street and Cowcaddens Road is proposed, along with a large canopy structure to provide shelter across the station.

Additional development is planned along Killermont Street, while the future of the nearby Concert Square Car Park could also be reconsidered as part of the wider overhaul.

AtkinsRéalis was appointed to lead the project in late 2024, with the ambition of delivering a world-class transport hubthat integrates buses with active travel and future mass transit options. Community engagement has been supported by Glasgow-based New Practice.

Handling more than 500,000 bus departures each year, Buchanan Bus Station plays a critical role in the city’s transport network. Its redevelopment is expected to complement nearby regeneration projects, including plans for the Buchanan Galleries site.

George Gillespie, Glasgow City Council’s executive director for neighbourhoods, regeneration and sustainability, said the masterplan sets a clear direction for the future of this key city-centre location, combining improved transport infrastructure with wider regeneration benefits.

While no construction timeline has yet been confirmed, the approval signals a major step towards reshaping the area into a modern, connected and mixed-use urban hub.