First George Square statue taken down for restoration
An effigy of poet Robert Burns was removed from its plinth today, the first of 11 bronze statues taken from the square for conservation and restoration purposes, with the rest set to follow in the next two weeks.
One of Europe's leading metal and statue conservation firms, Rupert Harris Conservation, will be tasked with restoring the George Square pieces before their return in summer 2026.
The statues will be wrapped in blankets and black plastic for protection (Image: Colin Mearns/NQ) Hoardings were erected around the area on April 30 and renovation work will begin once all statues have been removed and placed in storage.
The George Square redevelopment plan is set to take around 18 months, with a £20 million contract awarded to Rainton Constructions to cover the project.
Read more: Scottish charity handed £50k from LEZ fines to help 'vital' community work
As part of the wider Avenues project, the contract also covers the creation of links connecting streets near the square, including North Hanover Street, West George Street and St Vincent Place.
The Avenues project aims to make Glasgow better connected, boost business, increase green spaces in the area and make the city a more 'welcoming, people friendly' place for residents and tourists alike, according to Glasgow City Council.
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