The centres of Scotland’s cities are firmly at the heart of their success. But they never stand still. This sense of progress is evident in Glasgow, where exciting plans are being drawn up for the future design of George Square and the streets nearby.
The city council will now ask people what they think of what’s known as the George Square Area Project, or Block C of the Avenues programme for Glasgow city centre, which is being funded through the Glasgow City Region City Deal.
“Glasgow deserves a civic heart that reflects the great, welcoming, vibrant city that it is – and I’m pleased people from all over the city have taken their opportunity to tell us what George Square means to them and what they would like to see it become.
“This final engagement will not only see their thoughts on our city’s most historic and loved public space take shape; but also give Glaswegians a final chance to influence the final design.”
Susan Aitken, Leader, Glasgow City Council
The initial sketch for George Square provides a base for discussion – not a fully-developed option – during this final engagement.
And it features a large lawn and an open space with seating and cafe areas under tree canopies. Existing monuments and statues would be either retained or relocated within the square.
The scheme is part of the wider £115m Avenues project – a network of new, attractive routes throughout the city centre that are people-focused, encourage active travel and are more attractive to residents, workers, visitors and investors.
And Scotland’s other city centres are changing, too. In Stirling, moves are afoot to restore buildings, widen pavements and generally improve the experience for both locals and visitors in the city centre. A council spokesperson said: ““Our vision is to create a vibrant Stirling city centre which offers an exceptional experience for residents, visitors and business both day and night.”
A more vibrant city centre is also on the cards in Aberdeen, where a 20-year masterplan will upgrade Union Street to feature better leisure and business facilities, along with an expansion of Union Terrace Gardens and a redevelopment of the Guild Street area near the bus station.
Scotland’s city centres are changing for good and that’s great news for people and businesses.
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