Bowling group strikes deal for iconic venue

A leisure group with venues across the UK and Europe has expanded its footprint in Glasgow with the acquisition of a landmark city centre site.

The Lane7 Group, known for its boutique bowling and competitive socialising venues, has taken over Platform – the 35,000sq ft event space located in the railway arches beneath Glasgow Central Station. 

Formerly The Arches, the site is one of the city’s most distinctive cultural venues and will continue to operate as usual, with all 2025 events set to go ahead.

Gavin Hughes, Lane7 Group managing director, said: “You’d be hard pushed to find anyone in Glasgow and the surrounding areas who hasn’t attended an event at Platform or at its predecessor as The Arches. 

“It’s a stalwart of the Glasgow cultural scene and we’re honoured to have secured an agreement with the Platform team.  

“We’ve identified huge potential for Platform, its space, and its location in the pounding heart of central Glasgow. 

“It’s a perfect addition to our portfolio of entertainment and hospitality spaces across Scotland, the UK and further afield.” 

Gavin added: “We know Platform has a number of pre-existing bookings, so we want to assure everyone there are no changes being made that will affect those bookings. 

“Those with thoughts on booking a space in the venue in the lead up to what we know will be a busy autumn and festive trading period should also know that Platform remains the best place in Glasgow to throw a party.” 

A spokesperson for Platform added: “We’re thrilled the future of Platform has been secured under new ownership. 

“We’re handing over a much-loved space to the perfect new owners. 

“The Lane7 Group is an organisation with soul. 

“It has ambition and creativity and operates with integrity. 

“We know they’ll have some very cool plans to make sure the venue remains a long-term fixture in the Glaswegian hospitality and night-time scene.”

Headquartered in Darlington, County Durham, Lane7 Group operates 20 sites alongside LevelX gaming venues, including one in Glasgow’s St Enoch Centre, as well as three family-oriented Gutterball locations. 

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