THE O2 ABC on Sauchiehall Street should be saved from demolition, the MSP for the city centre has said.
Sandra White, Kelvin SNP MSP, said the building is older than the Mackintosh at the School of Art and raised concerns that the demolition could have implications for the investigation into the cause of the fire.
Ms White raised the demolition issue with Deputy First Minister John Swinney, standing in for Nicola Sturgeon at First Minister’s Questions.
Read more: O2 ABC: Shock at move to bulldoze landmark Glasgow venue wrecked by School of Art fire
She said the ABC has not received the same publicity or has the same importance attached as the Mackintosh
Ms White added: “If the O2 can’t be save we must ensure the façade is saved.”
Mr Swinney said recognised the importance of the historic venue.
He said: “The council must exercise its responsibility and comply with legal requirements.”
Mr Swinney said he was not familiar with the listed status of the façade of the building but added: he would “make sure historic Environment Scotland was fully engaged with the council” on the matter.
As previously reported by the Evening Times, an application has been submitted to Glasgow City Council to demolish the building in its entirety.
Owners of the block, that also holds Campus Bar, City Cutz and California restaurant, are seeking permission to raze it to the ground after it was extensively damaged by blaze.
Read more: In pictures: Looking back on the history of Glasgow's O2 ABC
The application is yet to be considered by the local authority but has already been disputed by residents, musicians and politicians alike.
A spokesman for Historic Environment Scotland said: "We have not yet been consulted by Glasgow City Council on these proposals.
“Listed building consent is required for the demolition of listed buildings. This is granted by planning authorities, who are required to consult Historic Environment Scotland where demolition of a listed building is proposed."
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