IT is one of Glasgow’s most treasured architectural gems, widely recognised as a particularly fine examples of Victorian urban planning.

It perhaps comes as no surprise, then, that the new luxury development which will “complete” the city’s prestigious Park area has already generated more than 600 enquiries from potential buyers.

Despite objections from some who live in the area, the development was given the green light by city planners keen to encourage urban living and, no doubt, maximise council tax coffers.

These apartments are likely to be among the most desirable in Scotland, and are sure to have price-tags to match, which raises questions about who will buy them. It would be unfortunate, surely, if too many were snapped up by corporate buyers intent on maximising their potential income as expensive short-term lets, rather than offering them as homes.

Vibrant modern cities need diverse populations that feel invested in their communities, willing and able to foster and create neighbourhoods that will thrive and survive in the long term.

The Park is already a successful and vibrant place to live and work, as are the districts that surround it. We must hope whoever purchases these properties will respect the importance of creating good places to live as well as buy.