Glasgow’s Egyptian Halls: A Tale of Revitalization
In the heart of Glasgow lies a hidden gem, the Egyptian Halls, designed by the renowned architect Alexander ‘Greek’ Thompson in 1872. Once a symbol of architectural grandeur, this A-listed building has faced decades of neglect, leaving its intricate beauty marred by decay. However, a new chapter may be on the horizon as the local authority contemplates a transformative move to breathe life back into this historical landmark.
The Glasgow City Council is exploring the possibility of a compulsory purchase order (CPO) for the Egyptian Halls, signaling a potential shift in ownership to a consortium led by the publisher of The List magazine. This bold plan, up for discussion at the upcoming meeting of the Contracts and Property Committee, aims to rescue the building from its current state of disrepair and restore it to its former glory.
Over the years, the Egyptian Halls have witnessed a tumultuous journey, with various attempts at renovation falling short of fruition. In the 1980s, the upper floors of the building were left vacant, leading to a gradual decline in its condition. By the early 1990s, the council issued a repair order to a Hong Kong restaurateur who held partial ownership, but the decay persisted, prompting the issuance of a Compulsory Purchase Order.
In 2000, Dundee businessman Derek Souter and his company Union Street Developments stepped in with ambitious plans to revitalize the Egyptian Halls. However, despite initial enthusiasm, the restoration efforts faced repeated setbacks, leaving the building in a state of limbo. Various proposals, from transforming it into a hotel to creating a mews connecting to Buchanan Street, failed to materialize, culminating in the installation of a large screen over the building in 2010.
Amidst these challenges, Mr. Souter’s attempts to generate revenue through advertising on the building, earmarked for its maintenance, were thwarted by the Glasgow City Council last year. Despite the setbacks, hope still lingers for the Egyptian Halls, as a recent exploration of the building by our correspondent Mark Smith revealed its potential for redemption.
As the prospect of a second Compulsory Purchase Order looms, there is a sense of anticipation in the air, with a new owner waiting in the wings to usher in a new era for the Egyptian Halls. The decision holds the promise of a fresh start for this architectural marvel, offering a glimmer of hope for its revival and preservation for generations to come.
