Latest news with #GlasgowCityRegionCityDeal
Glasgow Times
a day ago
- Glasgow Times
Number of people to cross Glasgow's Govan to Partick bridge revealed
The Govan-Partick Bridge, which opened on September 7, 2024, has been crossed more than a million times by pedestrians and cyclists. The Glasgow City Region City Deal project, which saw the Scottish and UK Governments each provide £12.685 million in funding for the bridge, reconnected Govan and Partick. The bridge spans Water Row on the Southside to Pointhouse Quay beside the Riverside Museum on the north. Since its opening last September, more than 820,000 pedestrians and over 185,000 cyclists have crossed the bridge. The bridge is of economic, environmental, and social significance, linking communities and numerous visitor attractions and institutions. It forms a central part of the active travel route between the University of Glasgow's Gilmorehill campus and the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital. The Govan-Partick Bridge, one of Europe's longest opening pedestrian/cycle bridges, measures six metres in width and has two spans. The moving span, weighing 650 tonnes, is 99 metres long, while the fixed span weighs 45 tonnes and is 15.7 metres long. (Image: (Image: Gordon Terris, Newsquest)) Councillor Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council and chair of the Glasgow City Region Cabinet, said: "With the City Deal we're quite literally building bridges between our communities along the Clyde. "Our expectations that the Govan-Partick Bridge would reconnect these historic communities have been exceeded with these fantastic figures. "It quickly became a key landmark in the city and a tremendously well-used travel route and will be critical to the continuing regeneration of our riverside and its surrounding communities in the years to come.' Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: "It is impressive to see the impact this bridge has made for communities across the River Clyde. "As well as improving access to jobs and visitor attractions, it has opened up travel between the University of Glasgow's West End and Queen Elizabeth Hospital campuses for pedestrians and cyclists." Kirsty McNeill, UK Government Scotland Office minister, said: "A fantastic one million crossings in less than nine months is clear proof that this magnificent bridge across Glasgow's beloved Clyde has quickly become a cherished and vital piece of infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists." The Glasgow City Region City Deal will see both the Scottish and UK Governments each provide £500 million of funding for infrastructure projects across the city region.
Glasgow Times
4 days ago
- Glasgow Times
Inside the redesign of Glasgow's Sauchiehall Street
'Sauchiehall Street's had a bit of flak recently,' it's a statement that comes as no surprise as the Glasgow Times meets Glasgow City Council representatives on the city centre street. Still, it has remained one of the main avenues in the city, stretching over one-and-a-half miles, and is associated with shopping and nightlife, and even features in a few songs. The section between Charing Cross and its connection with Buchanan Street has recently been given a facelift, too. It's part of the £1billion investment funded by the Glasgow City Region City Deal, which includes contributions from both the Scottish and UK Governments. This project is part of the £123million Avenues programme. The Glasgow Times was invited out by the team behind the design of the street as they talked us through the 'new and improved' layout. Inside the redesign of Glasgow's Sauchiehall Street (Image: Colin Mearns)READ MORE: 9 pictures which tell story of famous Glasgow department store Meeting at the brow of the hill, we look down the newly paved road from Rose Street's crossing all the way down to West Nile Street – our focus for this stage of the street's rejuvenation. 'It's unavoidable to admit that it's needed a renovation,' say the representatives. The tail-end of the works is being completed as we wander down through the lush greenery of the 40 new street trees, people fill the impressive 77 new benches, and we talk through the intricacies of the vision for the street. They explain: 'The goal of this program is to introduce greener spaces into the city centre, provide more space for people and pedestrians, spaces to rest, and, where appropriate, segregated cycling infrastructure. 'Sauchiehall Street was already a pedestrianised precinct, which was a key thing to be maintained. 'The design's principle involves treating the central section as a place to gather and rest with greenery and lighting, while the two side flanks form the 'motorways' for pedestrians around the benches and trees.' The benches have been arranged to form 'living room'-like spaces (Image: Colin Mearns) It aims to promote free access between shops and allow people walking and cycling to share the space, with an emphasis on consideration of other users. The trees will form a canopy of shelter over the benches and area, and have been planted with growth in mind, something that was missing from the previous foliage. They explain: 'The trees that were originally on the street were in danger of dying, because they hadn't been planted properly. 'Their roots were coming up through the pavement, and they weren't growing, which was because they weren't planted in 'tree boxes'.' READ MORE: The unusual link between Glasgow and 'dark history' of the pineapple They go on to show us the boxes into which the new foliage has been sunk—they'll allow the variety of tree species to flourish on the street. That variety is a consideration that's been made to ensure that no disease spreads through the leafy canopy. While the question of rats invading the new drainage system has to be asked, after the issue was reported in March, the council say they have seen no such problems arise. Under the surface is where the 'real magic' has happened for the street, improved drainage and infrastructure will allow for further developments and investments in the area to 'unlock the street's full potential.' Fiona McLeod, 65, enjoying a new bench (Image: Colin Mearns) Above ground, the 77 benches have been warmly greeted by people we spoke to as we passed, including 65-year-old Fiona McLeod, who said: 'I think it's a brilliant thing for somebody that's given a wee bit of mobility problems. 'It's brilliant to be able to just sit and just rest, I love them here. I think it's a great idea.' She's sitting facing another bench in one of the many different layouts seen across the street. These benches have been placed specifically in a bit of urban Feng Shui—they form almost 'living room'-like spaces. 'It's to allow for people to gather in different ways that suit them, to rest, chat, eat or simply sit and enjoy the view,' explained the council representatives. Cambridge Street with the new plant beds and cycle lane. (Image: Colin Mearns) We look at the wildflower 'rain gardens' on Cambridge Street, which help with drainage and benefit bees and other flora and fauna. Cycle lanes have been added, and the crossings have also been widened, which should help the large footfall on the street cross safely. READ MORE: Glasgow School of Art lecturer turns 28 years of memories into bold new show Additional lighting is being added, and service units have been installed to allow for future events, including a vision for market stalls. We pass a few 'to let' signs, a sign of the times as an unavoidable hangover from Covid and a turbulent time for the high street.
Daily Record
12-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Record
Crowds gather to see £117m Renfrew Bridge open over River Clyde
The 184-metre bridge provides a two-lane crossing for vehicles, pedestrians and active travel as it connects Meadowside Street in Renfrew and Dock Street in Yoker. Renfrew Bridge – the first opening road bridge across the River Clyde – has opened to traffic marking the completion of the Clyde Waterfront and Renfrew Riverside project. It is expected to open up work, health, education and leisure opportunities on both sides of the river – with the potential for 1,400 additional jobs, investment and developments to be brought to the riverside. The 184-metre, twin-leaf bridge uses a cable stay system, similar to the Queensferry Crossing, and provides a two-lane crossing for vehicles, pedestrians and active travel as it connects Meadowside Street in Renfrew and Dock Street in Yoker, with the ability to open for passing ships as required. Renfrewshire Council leader Iain Nicolson was joined on Thursday by Scottish Government minister for employment and investment Tom Arthur MSP and UK Government parliamentary under-secretary of state for Scotland Kirsty McNeill, as well as partners and the local community, to formally open the bridge. Young people from Kirklandneuk Primary in Renfrew, Our Holy Redeemer's Primary in Clydebank and St Brendan's and Clyde primaries from Yoker were first to officially use the bridge as they met in the middle to signify the connection the bridge has now created between the communities. Councillor Nicolson said: 'I'm delighted to see the opening of the new Renfrew Bridge as we successfully complete this transformational project which will enhance the local economy, attract new investment and developments to the riverside, and create thousands of new job opportunities for local people. 'It is another example of the council's ability to deliver nationally significant infrastructure projects and the benefits will be felt immediately by road users, local residents and businesses, as well as the long-term economic boost to Renfrewshire and the Glasgow City Region. 'With this project enhancing access into the Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District Scotland (AMIDS) next to Glasgow Airport, it is an exciting time for Renfrewshire and I look forward to seeing the bridge in use.' In addition to the new bridge, the project has created additional connecting roads, cycling and walking routes, supported by £2 million from Transport Scotland, including the extension of Argyll Avenue from Inchinnan Road to Meadowside Street and there will be a direct link to Yoker railway station from Renfrew for the first time. The new bridge and adjoining roads have also improved access for people, businesses and suppliers to the AMIDS, Scotland's home of manufacturing innovation, which is being developed by the Council next to Glasgow Airport in collaboration with Scottish Government and Scottish Enterprise. The bridge itself cost £117m, with £39m from both the Scottish and UK governments under the Glasgow City Region City Deal, and £1.7m from Transport Scotland. Minister for employment and investment Mr Arthur said: 'Renfrew Bridge's opening is a historic moment, and it will be a welcome addition to the Clyde, creating opportunities for communities and businesses on both sides of the river and supporting 1,400 new jobs. 'This delivers our programme for government commitment to invest £1.9 billion in growth deals, benefiting people across Scotland.' The £1.13bn Glasgow City Region City Deal is a partnership of eight councils working to deliver a programme of work to grow a strong, inclusive and sustainable city region and an economy which delivers for all people and businesses. Ms McNeill commented: 'Completion of Clyde Waterfront and Renfrew Riverside project, which has been supported with £39m from the UK Government, is great news for communities who can now enjoy a new bridge over the River Clyde to Yoker, a regenerated riverside and additional roads, cycling and walking routes. 'These enhancements are expected to attract further private sector investment and create more than a thousand jobs on both sides of the Clyde. This is our Plan for Change in action, working with partners to deliver economic growth and a decade of national renewal.' Civil engineers GRAHAM completed the construction project which has supported more than 950 jobs and generated hundreds of subcontract and supplier opportunities – many of which were completed by local businesses. Jim Armour, GRAHAM's project director, said: 'The official opening of Renfrew Bridge represents the culmination of years of innovative engineering, collaborative working and community engagement. This transformational piece of infrastructure will revitalise an area that has endured industrial decline over many years. 'We're immensely proud to have constructed a landmark transport link that celebrates the shipbuilding heritage of the Clyde.' As an opening bridge, river traffic will take priority so there may be occasions when the bridge is unavailable for crossing but information will be posted as early in advance as possible on the council website and on digital traffic signage to support.
The Herald Scotland
11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Herald Scotland
First reported vandalism on new Yoker bridge is Limmy-related
Featuring an image of Limmy's well-loved character Dee Dee at the centre of a Saltire, the sticker reads 'Les Porter Tartan Army Yoker'. Cllr Shaw wrote: "So the first reported vandalism on the bridge and it had to be Dee Dee! "Thankfully the Renfrew Tartan Army are a quiet, respectful lot who would never think of getting up to such mischief! Joking aside though, gonnae no dae that! The appearance of the sticker on the new bridge comes days after a new mural in tribute to Dee-Dee appeared in Yoker. The mural replaces an existing one sprayed by the same artist. Glasgow-based artist 'Tef' posted a video of them completing the artwork on the side of a derelict building next to the Yoker Ferry, near to the new Renfrew bridge. The new bridge is the first opening road bridge across the River Clyde. The 184-metre, twin-leaf bridge uses a cable stay system similar to the Queensferry Crossing and provides a two-lane crossing for vehicles, pedestrians and active travel as it connects Meadowside Street in Renfrew and Dock Street in Yoker, with the ability to open for passing ships as required. READ MORE: The making of Limmy: The comedian on life, fame and growing up in Glasgow Joy and nostalgia in Renfrew as new bridge opens up Clyde New Renfrew Bridge to create jobs boost along Clyde The new bridge is part of the £117million Clyde Waterfront and Renfrew Riverside project, being led by Renfrewshire Council and funded as part of the £1.13billion Glasgow City Region City Deal. According to the UK Government, it could create 1400 new jobs in the area. Kirsty McNeill MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Scotland, told The Herald: 'The bridge could potentially create 1400 new jobs, so we are really excited about that. 'We've backed that with £39m of investment, because we are so committed to seeing people have more money in their pocket. 'It's going to connect two communities', McNeil said, adding: 'It will improve connections for leisure and transportation between these iconic communities on the banks of the Clyde. 'The UK Government is committed to investing in infrastructure.' Architect Tony Kettle, known for his design of the Falkirk Wheel, crafted the concepts for the bridge. Kettle told The Herald: 'This is more than a bridge. It's a landmark that should become a tourist attraction for the area. 'It's a fantastic connection between the two banks, and will make the area thrive."
Glasgow Times
11-05-2025
- Business
- Glasgow Times
Revamp of Glasgow train station's entrance step closer
Glasgow City Council has approved awarding £120,000 to Network Rail to develop plans for refurbishment of the façade. It is expected to cost around £3m. Plans for a complete redevelopment of the station — which would have included new lifts to improve accessibility — were put on hold last year due to a lack of funding. Installing lifts was estimated to cost around £10m, council leader Susan Aitken said. Funding for the design work and the wider entrance revamp will come from the Glasgow City Region City Deal, a £1bn infrastructure programme funded by the UK and Scottish governments. READ MORE: Business owner hits out at silence over Celtic title party In October last year, an update on City Deal projects revealed the High Street scheme wasn't going ahead as originally proposed. At a meeting on Thursday, Cllr Aitken said City Deal sub-projects had been reprofiled due to 'rising costs as a consequence of inflation and a whole number of issues that impacted on the cost of capital projects', including Brexit and war in Ukraine. 'We are not at this point able to completely restore the entirety of the ambition for High Street station, but what we are able to do now is, working with Network Rail, address refurbishment of the facade of the station.' Transport Scotland previously said it had provided £700,000 towards the development of the scheme, and suggested the council could change the scope to make it more affordable. A wider City Deal project will see public realm and active travel improvements on High Street under the city's Avenues programme. These are currently being designed. READ MORE: 'Beloved' founder of popular restaurant sadly dies Cllr Aitken said the facade revamp is particularly important given this 'significant investment into High Street' as the front of the station 'isn't the most attractive right now'. A further City Deal grant for construction work is expected in the future. Cllr Aitken added the removal of Transport Scotland funding was 'a very large part of the reason why the full High Street station project, which would have installed lifts to make it more accessible, has had to be deferred'. 'The installation of the lifts is by far the most costly part of the project, that would be in the region of £10m. The funding that we are talking about for the refurbishment of the facade is closer to £3m.' She said talks are ongoing with Network Rail over funding. 'We are the instigators of this project, so it is appropriate that City Deal funding is allocated towards it. 'But it is Network Rail's asset and we would expect them to at the very least be in conversation with us about whether further funding might be required at a future stage, and that would be where we would expect them to step up.'
