Wetherspoon to Invest £4 Million in Transforming Former Glasgow Nightclub.
In an exciting development for Glasgow’s nightlife scene, JD Wetherspoon has announced its plans to invest a staggering £4 million in the renovation of a former city nightclub. The renowned UK-wide pub chain is set to breathe new life into the once-thriving Waverley Tea Rooms and Tusk nightclub, located in the vibrant Shawlands area.
The historic A-listed building, formerly owned by G1 Group (now the Scotsman Group), has sat vacant since 2017, leaving a void in the local entertainment landscape. However, this iconic structure holds a rich history, having originally housed the Waverley Picture House, which first welcomed moviegoers back in 1922.
In an exciting turn of events, Glasgow City Council granted approval for Wetherspoon’s plans to establish a new venue on this site in 2020. Recently, on Friday, the pub giant successfully obtained permission to modify the premises license for the building, marking a significant step forward in the project.
During the hearing with Glasgow’s Licensing Board, representatives from Wetherspoons revealed their ambitious vision, stating that the company is ready to invest £4 million in the extensive renovation of this remarkable property. Once completed, the revamped venue is expected to provide employment opportunities for approximately 60 to 70 staff members, further contributing to the local economy.
Archie MacIver, the licensing lawyer representing Wetherspoons, shared insights into the license variation, explaining that it would remove the nightclub-oriented elements and transform it into a more traditional Wetherspoon-style public house. The license amendment included the removal of live entertainment and an adjusted closing time of midnight. With a generous capacity of 680 people, the pub aims to offer a welcoming space for patrons to gather and enjoy their time.
Mr. MacIver expressed the company’s enthusiasm for this project, highlighting Wetherspoon’s established presence in Glasgow. He mentioned the previous establishment, the Sir John Stirling Maxwell located in Shawlands Arcade, which recently closed its doors after proudly serving the community for 25 years. The acquisition of the new site, the focus of this application, demonstrates Wetherspoon’s commitment to continuing their legacy in the area.
Emphasizing the historical significance of the venue, Mr. MacIver assured that the £4 million redevelopment would not only revive the building’s former glory but also enhance its overall splendor. The transformation aims to restore this architectural gem to its former grandeur, drawing inspiration from the days of yore.
It’s worth noting that JD Wetherspoon previously operated a pub in close proximity to the site, the Sir John Stirling Maxwell on Kilmarnock Road, which unfortunately closed earlier this year. However, with the upcoming redevelopment of Shawlands Arcade, for which planning permission in principle was granted in March, the area is set to undergo a remarkable transformation.
While an exact timeline for the commencement of the renovation work and the pub’s grand opening is yet to be announced, one thing is for certain: Glasgow’s nightlife is on the verge of an exciting revival, courtesy of JD Wetherspoon’s investment in this iconic venue.
