High Street reopens earlier than expected after months of roadworks
Scottish Water has been digging up the road for five months
Major water and sewage repairs which have closed a section of High Street in Glasgow have finally been completed months after the were originally due to have finished.
The road had been closed between its junctions with Duke Street and Rottenrow since the beginning of January and drivers were warned the busy commuter route could be closed until the end of June.
Clyde 1 News reported on the anger from traders around the High Street area in February when the closure had to be extended when engineers discovered the scale and complexities of the project.
But some motorists may find they are still unable to use High Street even though it has reopened.
High Street forms the eastern boundary of Glasgow's Low Emission Zone.
From 1st June drivers whose vehicles don't meet tough emissions standards will be fined for driving within the zone.
200 year old sewer
Uncharted services, a 24-inch water main and tricky ground conditions all added to the complexities of the repair to the 200 year-old sewer.
In addition to the 20 metres of sewer pipe which was upgraded, three manholes were constructed and 22 metres of water main removed and replaced.
Georgina Reid, Scottish Water’s corporate affairs manager in the west, explained: “The extension of the road closure on High Street was unavoidable and the road was supposed to be closed until the end of June.
“We’re really pleased that the road has reopened in time for a busy summer period, including the Cycling World Championships. There’s absolutely no doubt the local community and road users will be too. Everyone has been very patient and understanding, for which we are very thankful.