Design process moves forward on Bishopbriggs public realm ambitions

WORK is gathering pace on the Bishopbriggs Public Realm Plan to help shape the future of the town centre.

The project has been hailed a key part of East Dunbartonshire Council’s £34.88 million Place and Growth Programme – supported by £15.1 million each from the UK and Scottish Governments through the Glasgow City Region City Deal.

A consultation took place last summer to help guide preparations of the plan, which aims to give pedestrians, cyclists and public transport priority over cars; rework the existing public realm and deliver new public spaces; and make the town centre a more active, inclusive and engaging place.

Councillor Gordan Low, leader of the council, said, “The council’s £34.88 million City Deal Place and Growth Programme represents a significant opportunity for the residents of Bishopbriggs to shape the future of their area. It’s vital that we develop a Public Realm Plan which helps to create and maintain a sustainable, attractive and thriving town centre that everyone can enjoy and take pride in.”

Pick Everard, erz Limited and Nick Wright Planning were appointed in January 2021 to form a design team. A review of the existing public realm was carried out and an outline design concept has been produced.

There will now be a follow-on process which will include detailed design, community and stakeholder engagement, and further site investigations.

The local authority revealed this will be progressed in tandem with A803 Kirkintilloch Road design works, with the focus on reallocation of space within the road corridor through the town centre, as well as measures to address traffic movement.