Sauchiehall Street has been part of this city’s identity for over a century, its very name resonating with generations of Scots. But it hasn’t had its challenges to seek.

Retail has been drifting to other city locations for many years, compounded by the rise in online. Similarly, the night-time sector, so important to Sauchiehall Street’s vitality, has had to contend with the emergence of new locations and changes to socializing habits.

Of course, we also can’t forget the three massive fires in the past decade which have been so devastating.

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The resilience of businesses and its enduring popularity have kept Sauchiehall Street alive during some of its most challenging times. But the indications are that our most famous thoroughfare is pulling through. Momentum is building, with private and public investment beginning to pave the way for its transformation and readiness for the next chapter in its history.

Just last month, for example, we received National Lottery funds to place culture and heritage at the heart of Sauchiehall Street’s renaissance. Just nine projects have been selected across the UK and we’re in a great position to secure our share of a Lottery fund of £200million.

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Clearly there are gap sites and vacant properties which have blighted the street for some time. The Council remains committed to working with building owners to find the best possible solutions, for example, replicating the work in other parts of the city centre to successfully overcome heritage issues. As best as is possible, we want to protect Glasgow’s past while building its future.

It’s been really pleasing to see the emerging range of proposals for regenerating key sites in and around Sauchiehall Street, a solid indication of the confidence in its future.

While some are several years from commencing, others are much more immediate and progress is expected in the near future. And complementing this, the Sauchiehall Street Avenue is due for completion by the close of the year.

Of course, we mustn’t overlook the return of the area’s most famous tenant, the Mackintosh School of Art, which its custodians are committed to rebuilding. The return of the Mac will be truly transformational for the entire city centre.

The emerging Sauchiehall Street won’t be the same as that from even just a decade ago. But it will be as important to the long-term vibrancy and sustainability of Glasgow city centre. And in the meantime, the Council stands ready to work with businesses and citizens to ensure it is the best it can be, here and now.