BBC Scotland submit plans for new headquarters

BBC Scotland have submitted a planning application to Glasgow City Council for their site at Pacific Quay on the south bank of the Clyde.
The project will create the first purpose built BBC digital headquarters, providing accommodation and facilities for around 1200 staff.
BBC Scotland Controller John McCormick said that the Planning application was an important and exciting step forward in the development of the entire Pacific Quay site.
He added: “This landmark project will form the flagship of our strategy to create more stimulating and flexible working environments for staff, in a stunning new building that is more welcoming to our audiences. We have an opportunity which comes very rarely: to provide a world-class broadcasting centre and help create a new and dynamic media quarter, regenerating an important location close to the heart of the city. The planning submission is an important step toward achieving that vision.”
The new complex will include public spaces and amenities designed to make the BBC more accessible and welcoming to visitors. Digitally equipped for national and international radio, television and interactive services, the 32,500sq metre HQ, due to be completed in 2007, will place BBC Scotland at the heart of a unique urban media community of broadcasting and digital media production companies.
The building, designed by leading international architect David Chipperfield and his team, will display a significant presence within the Pacific Quay framework. The remarkable glass façade will ensure that the perspective of the building will change throughout the day, season and viewpoint. A defining feature will be an internal, stepped ‘street’ that will rise throughout the entire length of the design, providing break-out spaces and informal meeting areas, as well as offering visitors a dramatic view of BBC Scotland at work.
It is hoped that the new BBC headquarters building will become a focal point for the continued development and regeneration of Pacific Quay. The 60-acre site is currently undergoing a huge transformation and already houses the Glasgow Science Centre, IMAX Cinema, Scottish Criminal Records Office and the Millennium Tower.
“Pacific Quay will undoubtedly grow to become the hub for media activity in Scotland,” said John McCormick. “I look forward to BBC Scotland being at the heart of that dynamic creative community.”
In line with its strategy to direct more money into programme making, BBC Scotland plans to source funding by raising the finance through a Bond Issue. This will enable the development to be undertaken at no additional cost to the licence fee payer.
BBC Scotland’s Planning submission will now be considered by Glasgow City Council, alongside consultation with public bodies such as the local community councils, the public utility companies and the Council’s own Highways Department. Members of the public may inspect the application at the Council’s offices over the next 16 weeks.
BBC Scotland will also continue to work in partnership with Pacific Quay Developments, Scottish Enterprise and Glasgow Science Centre to progress the development of a new masterplan for Pacific Quay.
(GB)