Wider footpaths and pop-up cycle lanes in Glasgow to be made permanent

Wider footpaths, pop up cycle lanes and other Covid distancing measures are set to become permanent in Glasgow.

Most of the Spaces for People street schemes installed during the pandemic in the city are set to stay under proposals to go before politicians on Thursday morning.

It has been recommended that George Square road closures and footpath widening in Merchant City and at bus stops should remain in place.

A total of 17 pop-up cycle lanes in Argyle Street, Great Western Road, Royston Road and others are also set to remain. It is also proposed road closures and ‘urban greening’ in Kelvin Way should be retained.

But footpath widening in nine areas including Byres Road, Parkhead and Easterhouse could be removed under proposals.

The recommendations, which have emerged following an independent review, will go in front of councillors at the City Administration Committee this week.

Councillor Martha Wardrop said: "Scottish Greens councillors secured the commitment to reviewing Spaces for People schemes with a view to making them permanent, so it’s pleasing that a huge majority will be retained, including all the active travel routes.

"People have responded positively to the opportunities created by making walking, cycling and wheeling easier.”

The Hillhead Scottish Green Party politician said the proposals "would be a big step towards the kind of city we need to support safer, healthier travel and create child-friendly neighbourhoods.”

It is recommended to keep ‘People Friendly Streets’ projects in Dennistoun, Shawlands and Pollokshields East.

The council has attracted £799,000 funding from Sustrans to carry out the work on the Spaces for People projects.

About 40km of additional segregated active travel routes were provided under the measures.

The independent review considered the number of people using the active travel routes and public feedback among other information according to a council paper.

Commenting on the impact of the scheme on climate change, the paper said: "The projects will improve Glasgow’s urban environment and connectivity, thus leading to an increase in sustainable travel methods and a reduced carbon footprint."

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