05-05-2025
Has a tram network been ruled out of Glasgow's Clyde Metro project?
The Clyde Metro project was first mentioned in 2017 by the Connectivity Commission investigating the future of transport in Glasgow.
Eight years later, people in the city are no clearer about what this could be or whether it will actually happen than they were then.
Last week, Mott MacDonald was appointed consultants for the next stage, described as 'helping to determine a scope and timetable for the delivery of Clyde Metro, including routes, destinations and specific modes'.
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The Glasgow Times asked Strathclyde Partnership for Transport what Clyde Metro will look like and when we might see it.
Valerie Davidson spoke to the Glasgow Times to answer some questions we still have about Clyde Metro.
At the moment, the exact details have still to be decided.
We do know one thing. It will not be a new tram network.
SPT, Glasgow City Council, and Transport Scotland issued a joint 'Position statement' on Clyde Metro.
It said Clyde Metro could include: 'Conversion of parts of the Heavy Rail network to Metro Rail.
'Extensions to those converted Metro Rail routes to serve new destinations.
"Creation of new Light Metro lines.
The statement also listed a number of things Clyde Metro is not, including: 'A 'tram project' as it encompasses a wide variety of modes.
'An individual route / standalone transport infrastructure project, as it constitutes a long-term programme and wider network."
It said Clyde Metro is not 'being considered in isolation – it needs to be considered alongside other existing modes as well as the transformational impacts it can deliver.'
Ms Davidson explained where the project is at the moment.
She said: 'There is a process we have to follow.
'First, identify the case for change. That's been done. Then, identify the range of options. That's the stage we are in at the moment.
'It all contributes to the business case. Metro is a programme of activities, of different projects.'
The Mott McDonald work will be complete by 2026/27.
She added: 'That's the next big date, to have the case for investment and why you would do this? Is this buildable?.'
Ms Davidson said there are four 'corridors' of work, considering 'What are we trying to connect and why?'.
She added: 'It will decide a preferred outcome and what to do first.
'Heavy rail or tram or tram/train. Anything is possible.'
Asked about the joint position, which appeared to rule out a tram, she said: 'It hasn't come out as one of the preferred options at this stage.'
However, some new modes could be created.
Ms Davidson said: 'Until we get through the process, we're careful not to say what and where.
'There's a difference between Metro and tram. It's to do with types of vehicle, capacity and frequency.
'Metro and tram are marginally different.'
A new route connecting Glasgow Airport was said to be the first route of Metro.
Ms Davidson said: 'We are obviously looking at what's the priority and that is part of the work we are doing just now.
'Connections to the airport area are still in there.'
The next step is for the case for investment and preferred options to be brought forward.
Ms Davidson said: 'We will present the work to our own partnership board, also to Glasgow City Region and also Transport Scotland.
'All three bodies are working in different capacities. If you are talking about who eventually approves it, we would be seeking the agreement of all three.'
