Byres Road to be overhauled

The plan's been designed with cyclists and pedestrians in mind

Traffic on Byres Road
Author: Lesley DiMascioPublished 8th Nov 2022
Last updated 8th Nov 2022

A massive overhaul of Byres Road in West End to make it more pedestrian and cyclist-friendly is going to begin in January.

The first phase will take 18 months and concentrate on the area between Partick Cross and University Avenue.

Changes for drivers and cyclists will include a one-way system at the southern end of the street, 20 mile an hour limit and parking spaces removed to make way for a new cycle lane that will connect to Great Western Road and Patrick Cross. The width of the carriageway will also be reduced.

The plan was given the green light today by the Glasgow City Region Cabinet.

The City Council says works will be delivered in phases to minimise disruption for local businesses, with the second phase, between University Avenue and Great Western Road, beginning once the first phase is completed.

Councillor Susan Aitken, Leader of Glasgow City Council and Chair of the Glasgow City Region Cabinet, said: “Residents, businesses and everyone who comes to Byres Road will enjoy the benefit of this work, which will significantly improve the public realm there, raising the quality of pavements and public spaces, and making it easier for people using different modes of travel to get around this great Glasgow street.”

John Turner, Chair of the Byres Road & Lanes Business Information District (BID) said: "We are very pleased that, after the considerable delays caused by the pandemic, the planned improvements to Byres Road will finally be getting underway early in 2023. We are eagerly awaiting the completion of the works and trust that they will enhance Byres Road in its position as a top visitor destination. The Byres Road & Lanes BID is looking forward to working closely with the council and their contractors to ensure that the work, while necessary, will be done in such a way that will cause the minimum of disruption to the existing businesses and residents of the area. The message to everyone is: Byres Road is Open for Business!"

Scottish Government Business Minister Ivan McKee said: “This project will encourage cycling and walking in the West End of Glasgow, creating more liveable and sustainable communities, and is to be welcomed. The Scottish Government is funding the Glasgow City Region City deal in line with our National Strategy for Economic Transformation plans to promote greener local living and stronger regions.”

UK Government Minister for Scotland Malcolm Offord said: "It's fantastic to see the improvements to Byres Road begin enhancing the city's already vibrant West End. The new pedestrian and cycle routes alongside the creation of eco-friendly spaces will make space for both residents and visitors to enjoy. The UK Government is investing £49m in improvements to Glasgow's Waterfront and West End Innovation Quarter as part of our £523m support for the Glasgow City Region Deal."

This work will complement the significant capital investment being delivered by the University of Glasgow through its campus re-development.

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