Glasgow City Council Approves Cook Street Urban Garden in Tradeston
Glasgow City Council has given the green light to the Cook Street Urban Garden development in Tradeston, a landmark scheme led by HP Invest. Spanning six buildings and delivering around 750,000 sq ft of mixed-use space, the project secured planning permission in principle on 21 August 2025 (Ref. 24/02516/PPP). The approval marks a decisive step in Glasgow’s wider regeneration agenda.
A Strategic Regeneration Site with Citywide Impact
Situated on a prime 4.7-acre site within the city’s designated regeneration district, the scheme is designed with flexibility in mind. It will accommodate a blend of residential, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) of up to 60%, build-to-rent apartments, co-living units, retail, food and beverage, leisure, and professional services.
A central park lies at the heart of the plan, intended to restore balance to the area while offering residents valuable green space. With a fully electric infrastructure, the development will also contribute to Glasgow’s net-zero goals, cementing its place in the broader Cook Street Urban Garden vision.
Flexible Masterplan Anchored by Mixed-Use Vision
Conceived as a student-led urban campus, the masterplan includes EV charging stations, cycling hubs, landscaped public realm, and ground-floor retail. The approved framework encompasses 848 PBSA units, 252 build-to-rent apartments (around 378 beds), and up to 40,000 sq ft of commercial and F&B space.
Its location, close to the River Clyde and within walking distance of both West Street and Bridge Street subway stations, enhances accessibility. Combined with new retail, leisure, and landscaped areas, the development is set to create not only much-needed housing but also a lively, connected community hub.
Leadership Perspective: A Milestone for HP Invest
David Poston, CEO of HP Invest, said:
“We’re thrilled with Glasgow City Council’s approval—this marks a defining moment for the Cook Street project and a major milestone in the regeneration of Tradeston. Our vision is to reimagine what urban living can be: delivering exceptional purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), a variety of high-quality residential options, and vibrant green spaces designed for community connection. This development is about building more than just homes—it’s about shaping a neighbourhood that blends affordability with ambition and adds a bold new chapter to Glasgow’s urban story.”
As one of the most significant mixed-use consents granted in Glasgow in recent years, the Cook Street development breathes new life into underused brownfield land. By integrating sustainable design, dynamic leisure amenities, and long-term placemaking principles, the project reflects HP Invest’s commitment to creating enduring value for both the local community and the wider city. It represents a powerful step forward in the mission to deliver meaningful, people-focused regeneration.
About HP Invest
HP Invest is part of the Harland & Poston Group, a Portugal-based investment company committed to shaping resilient, future-focused communities. With a portfolio extending from Portugal to the UK, the Group’s projects span residential, hospitality, student accommodation, and commercial developments.
Through a combination of local insight, sustainable construction, and innovative design, the Group seeks to enrich every environment it engages with. Its guiding philosophy is not only to identify opportunities but also to deliver them with foresight, responsibility, and impact.