Glasgow’s UFO Water Tower is now officially listed
Glasgow has never been short of unusual landmarks, but one of the city’s strangest structures has finally received the recognition it deserves.
Cranhill Water Tower, the 25-metre-tall concrete structure that looks as though a UFO has landed in Glasgow’s East End has been awarded Category B listed status by Historic Environment Scotland.
A Glasgow landmark from the Space Age
Built in 1951, Cranhill Water Tower was designed by Frank A Macdonald and Partners for Glasgow Corporation.
The Brutalist structure was created to supply water to the new post-war Cranhill housing development. More than 70 years later, it remains the earliest known surviving post-war water tower in Glasgow.
The tower is also an important reminder of a period when Glasgow was building entire new communities and investing in ambitious modern architecture.
Why has Cranhill Water Tower been listed?
The Category B listing follows a public consultation by Historic Environment Scotland.
Labour MSP Paul Sweeney nominated the tower for protection, highlighting its architectural importance and its place in Glasgow’s post-war history. The Twentieth Century Society also supported the campaign.
Historic Environment Scotland described the tower as a major surviving example of the reinforced-concrete water towers constructed around Glasgow during the 1950s and 1960s.
Category B status means the building is considered to have special architectural or historic interest. It should now receive greater protection when future alterations or development plans are considered.
Author: Emma Mykytyn
Writes for here and Foodie Explorers website. Usually found napping.