Glasgow City Council has approved an additional £600,000 from the Scottish Government to transform the Meat Market sheds, including world-class padel tennis courts. The project, which replaces original badminton court plans, is set to begin work in August. Councillors expressed concerns over delays but welcomed the funding boost.
The regeneration of Glasgow's historic Meat Market sheds is advancing with new sports facilities at its core. On a recent city administration committee meeting, councillors accepted an increased Regeneration Capital Grant Fund award of £600,000, bringing the total from this fund to £3,932,600. The council is also contributing £400,000 to the multi-million pound initiative, which aims to revitalize the B-listed structures.
Originally, the plans featured badminton courts, but these have been swapped for padel tennis facilities, described by officials as the 'next big thing' in sports. This change prompted the funding uplift, which will support the delivery of world-class padel courts alongside a sports hall, enterprise centre, events space, and bar or bistro. The additional resources will enable the Meat Market Regeneration Community Interest Company to progress community and business spaces as well.
Councillor Jon Molyneux voiced appreciation for the project's complexity but raised concerns about timelines, asking for assurances that work would start in August—though he referenced 2026, possibly highlighting fears of further delays. He noted the funding must be drawn down by the end of March. An official clarified that the extra money relates to the scope change, not delivery uncertainties.
Labour leader Councillor Rashid Hussain inquired about the specifics of the scope adjustment, while Councillor Elaine McDougall pointed out the project has been ongoing since 2021 and requested a breakdown of expenditures to date. She observed limited visible progress despite significant spending. An officer agreed to provide the details, mentioning multiple funding sources.
The initiative, underway since 2021, promises to enhance local sports and economic opportunities in Glasgow.