THE final public engagement exercise on the future design of Glasgow’s George Square and surrounding avenues is to begin.
Locals will be asked for their thoughts on an initial sketch on the civic space, with the latest vision being developed following earlier engagement on what was wanted from the square in terms of use and design.
Glasgow City Council said the latest phase of engagement will inform the final design of both the square and ‘around’ 2.5 kilometres of the surrounding streets, with the initial sketch of George Square providing a ‘base for discussion’ and ‘not a fully developed option’.
Key features include a single large lawn space, a large flexible hard open space that is flanked by continuous seating, cafe and restaurant breakout areas that are scattered under tree canopies, sensory planting, and rain gardens throughout.
The redesign will be delivered in two phases, with it being part of a wider £115 million avenues project which will bring a more people-focused design to the city centre. The first phase will commence in 2024 and will see George Square, John Street, Hanover, and Miller Street, a section of North Hanover Street, and Cochrane Street revamped. Phase two will involve St Vincent Street, George Street, Dundas Street, and Dundas Lane with completion in 2028.
John McAslan + Partners has been awarded the design contract for the project.
Councillor Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council, said, “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.”
Views on the plans can be given by clicking here.
