Plans Submitted To Transform James Watt Dock Sugar Sheds

Plans submitted to transform Greenock’s historic Sugar Sheds into vibrant waterfront events destination

If approved independent street food, seasonal markets, a museum and activity climbing centre could soon fill the currently vacant heritage buildings

Ambitious new plans have been submitted to transform the iconic Grade A-listed Sugar Sheds at James Watt Dock in Greenock, Scotland, into a dynamic, culture-led events space, marking another major step in the regeneration of Inverclyde’s historic waterfront.

The proposals, brought forward by Glasgow Arts Centre Limited, outline a “light-touch” partial change of use that would see the vast internal spaces of the Sugar Sheds brought to life as a flexible pop-up events hall, hosting food markets, craft fairs, seasonal festivals and corporate events throughout the year.

The buildings take their name from Greenock’s historic role as a centre of sugar importation, where raw materials arriving by ship were stored in vast dockside sheds before processing – cementing the town’s place in Scotland’s industrial story.

Plans include an onsite museum, pop-up stalls, food trucks and installations

Designed to celebrate the building’s rich industrial heritage while unlocking its potential for modern use. With the ambition to transform the site into a destination for school trips and education, the developers intend to create an onsite museum whilst also introducing temporary, reversible installations, including pop-up stalls, food trucks and a removable toilet facility, ensuring the historic fabric of the building remains untouched.

The events programme is expected to align with key moments in the calendar such as Christmas, Easter and Halloween, as well as local celebrations, creating a year-round destination for residents and visitors alike. Existing food vendors operating at the marina will also be invited to take part in events, helping to support local businesses and boost their visibility.

A catalyst for regeneration, tourism, and community growth

The submission builds on growing momentum at James Watt Dock Marina, where significant infrastructure upgrades, including a new access road and causeway, alongside approved marina and retail developments are already reshaping the area into a major destination for tourism and community activity. These investments have been led by James Watt Dock LLP -a partnership between Riverside Inverclyde and waterside regeneration specialists Peel Waters driving the long-term vision for the site – are positioning the waterfront as a catalyst for regeneration, tourism, and community growth.

The Sugar Sheds, alongside the neighbouring Titan Crane, are among the most recognisable symbols of Inverclyde’s industrial past. Having stood largely underused for decades, the new proposals aim to reintroduce activity, energy and public access while carefully preserving their historic character.

The longest urban zipline in the UK is also proposed for James Watt Dock

The plans form part of a wider, long-term vision to create a vibrant waterfront destination, combining heritage, culture and leisure. They follow Glasgow Arts Centre Limited’s earlier planning submission for an exhilarating urban zipline experience from the Titan Crane, which could become the longest of its kind in the UK, and further enhance the site’s appeal as a visitor attraction. The newly submitted plans for the Sugar Sheds will complement the proposed outdoor experience, by also having a smaller indoor zipline and activity climbing centre.

Together, these initiatives signal a bold new future for James Watt Dock, positioning it as a hub for creativity, tourism and economic growth in Inverclyde.

Bradley Mitchell, Director of Glasgow Arts Centre Limited, said: “These proposals are about bringing one of Greenock’s most recognised historic assets back into action whilst respecting everything that makes it special. The Sugar Sheds offer an incredible scale and atmosphere, and by introducing a flexible programme of pop-up events, markets and cultural activity, we can create something that feels both authentic and exciting.
“This is just the beginning of a much bigger vision for the waterfront – one that brings people together, supports local businesses, and turns James Watt Dock into a must-visit destination on the Clyde.”

Brian Lavalette, Scotland Property Director at Peel Waters, said: “James Watt Dock is already seeing significant investment and transformation, and these plans represent another important step in unlocking its full potential. By reimagining the Sugar Sheds as a vibrant, accessible events space, we can celebrate the area’s heritage while creating new opportunities for tourism, leisure and community use.
“Working in partnership, we are committed to delivering a destination that supports long-term regeneration and economic growth for Inverclyde.”

Councillor Michael McCormick, Inverclyde Council’s convener of environment and regeneration, commented: “This is another exciting step towards realising our shared ambition of breathing new life into the historic Sugar Sheds and Titan Crane at James Watt Dock and as part of the ongoing redevelopment of Greenock.
“We’ve seen glimpses in the past of the huge potential of the Sugar Sheds at events like the Tall Ships and these proposals, subject to planning permission, present an opportunity to create something new and vibrant for Greenock and Inverclyde and encourage more people from near and far to discover what the area has to offer.”

If approved, the plans will mark a major step forward in bringing one of Greenock’s most iconic waterfront landmarks back into use – unlocking its potential as a lively destination for events, culture and community life. Peel Waters, as joint partner in James Watt Dock LLP, continues to play a central role in driving forward the long-term regeneration of James Watt Dock and the wider Inverclyde waterfront.

To find out more about Glasgow Waters and Peel Waters’ wider Scotland portfolio visit: Home – Glasgow Waters