Glasgow City Council launches £1m scheme to bring empty listed buildings back into use

A new scheme has been launched to bring Glasgow’s empty listed buildings back into use.

The city council announced the £1m Heritage Building Viability Grant Scheme, which is to be delivered by the Glasgow Heritage Trust.

The scheme aims to make use of floorspace in some of the most significant buildings, whilst protecting the city’s heritage.

Grants will range from £15,000 to £350,000 and will fund works including services, fire safety measures, internal finishes, professional fees and other adaptations which can assist the reuse of the space.

The funding through the council was agreed as part of the 2026/27 budget in February this year.

Ruairi Kelly, depute leader and convener for Housing, Development and Built Heritage said: “Glasgow’s listed buildings are among the city’s greatest assets, and we want to see them full of life, not standing empty. Ending empty property relief has encouraged many owners to bring their buildings back into use.

“But we recognise that for some properties, the cost of the work needed is simply too great. We are delighted to be working with Glasgow City Heritage Trust to deliver this new scheme.”

Dr Erin Russo, grants manager of Glasgow City Heritage Trust, added: “Too many of the city’s historic buildings sit vacant due to the viability gap.

“This £1 million grant fund is about breaking that deadlock. By administering these grants, we can help get these buildings working again for the city, supporting building owners and our historic built environment.

“We would encourage any owner of a vacant listed building in Glasgow to get in touch with our grants team to find out whether their project could be eligible.”