THE roof garden of a luxury city centre residential development has been completed.

The outdoor space was finally unveiled at Buchanan Gardens after months of building work.

As reported in the Evening Times in July, half of the 49 apartments in the block, opposite the Buchanan Galleries, were snapped up after being on the market for just 10 days.

There are now only two homes remaining in the complex, which includes one, two and three-bedroom flats.

The roof garden, parts of which overlook Glasgow's busiest shopping area, Buchanan Street, was designed to attract and protect wildlife.

An orchard garden is at the heart of the rooftop garden, with apple trees, strawberries, crab apple hedges and a central mulberry tree.

It is hoped the space will act as a shared meeting and entertaining area for residents.

Kath MacTaggart, leading landscape architect for BDP, architects of the project, said: "We're thrilled to finalise and officially open this beautiful green space. It's unlike anything else in Glasgow city centre at the moment.

"Our dedicated team of architects created not only a haven for homeowners, but a sustainable bio-diverse resource to attract and protect wildlife.

"Our vast range of fruit trees are truly stunning, and will create a horticultural wonderland during bloom time."

The garden includes bird boxes and plants to attract butterflies and insects.

Louise Franklin, residential sales and marketing manager for Land Securities, said: "The sky garden was a crucial aspect of the design of these apartments and it's fantastic to see it complete and ready to be enjoyed.

"We're sure that each of the apartment owners will love this rooftop utopia."

Prices for the flats start from £272,995 for the two-bedroom apartment still available and £315,995 for the final three-bedroom duplex.

Several of the homes have their own private terraces and balconies and residents also have access to a communal gym and shared lounge area.

Demolition began at the site in February 2011, while the groundfloor shop units in the development, which include fashion stores Forever 21 and Gap, opened in March this year.

rachel.loxton@ eveningtimes.co.uk