Proposals for a 'cap' over M8 at Charing Cross to be explored
The proposals would see a new public space created over the motorway at the Mitchell Library and new walkways created for pedestrians and cyclists.
Proposals for a cap over the M8 at Charing Cross close to the Mitchell Library are to be developed as part of wider proposals for the area.
The study will look at how these proposals - which would see a number of innovative and transformative schemes that would add to the connections between Glasgow city centre and the West End currently being developed through the Avenues project - could be created and how they would function.
The design feasibility study will consider a range of matters, including concept design, engineering work, cost information, strategies for construction, maintenance and operation; site investigations, traffic modelling and economic analysis.
The scope of the contract is centred on a ‘design aim to turn Charing Cross from a traffic-dominated interchange in to a people-friendly city neighbourhood, with benefits for people, businesses, the environment, and the city’s reputation as a forward-looking place to live, visit and do business’.
The origins of the idea for a cap over the M8 at this part of the city lie in consultation with local residents, businesses and organisations during the development of the Sauchiehall and Garnethill District Regeneration Framework (S&GDRF), the first such framework to be developed under the council’s City Centre Strategy.
The City Centre Strategy for Glasgow outlines the strategic vision for the city centre: one of an attractive, active neighbourhood, able to foster a thriving civic life, enhance the overall quality of life, and promote economic growth.
The council is about to appoint a Lead Consultant and a team of multi-disciplinary Professional Services to undertake a feasibility assessment, options appraisal, and development of concept designs, on Key projects 1, 2 and 3, three inter-related projects that have been proposed as part of the S&GDRF. The council has provided approval for a feasibility assessment to be undertaken on the Key Projects and the outcome of this work and the proposed options for going forward will be reported to a council committee on completion of this commission.
A council spokesman said: “While the idea of a cap over the M8 is only one of the proposals now entering the feasibility study stage, it does reflect our ambitions and priorities in putting people at the centre of the regeneration of the city centre.
"Considering how we can best create a district that is healthy and sustainable, with inviting public spaces and a transport network that is easy to get around for everyone, will help to create a thriving city centre.
"The feasibility study will allow us to make an informed decision on the way forward for these proposals based on the costs and benefits, opportunities and challenges that face us as we look to develop the Charing Cross area.“
The value of the contract shortly to be awarded is £250,000.