THE first phase of Glasgow’s £120 million avenues project has been completed, marking what the council said is a ‘significant’ step forward in the transformation of the city centre.
Completion of the Holland and Pitt Street avenues represents a delivery of 4,000 square metres of new public realm to the area, whilst also complimenting significant private investment in the immediate vicinity.
The avenues include new tree-lined streets, widened pavements with a Caithness stone finish, segregated cycle lanes, and green landscaping.
Part of the Scottish and UK Government-funded city deal, the avenues are being delivered across the city centre and mark the biggest physical transformation since the pedestrianisation of Buchanan Street in the 1970s.
When complete, the programme – which includes the transformation of George Square – will form a network of ‘attractive and accessible’ streets which Glasgow City Council said will be comparable with the people-focused changes introduced across Europe and designed to encourage more residents, visitors and investors to the city centre.
Councillor Angus Millar, Glasgow City Council’s convenor for city centre recovery, said, “The completion of the first full Avenue is a real milestone in the ongoing transformation of the city centre. And Glaswegians will see more delivered very shortly. The Holland and Pitt Street avenue also show how public and private investment is working together to unlock opportunities across the city centre, creating vibrant and attractive new districts.
“Right now, our city centre is going through its biggest transition in half a century. The population is increasing, new sectors are emerging, investment is flowing in and infrastructure put in place. With the Holland and Pitt Avenue, we’re beginning to see how that’s shaping up.”
The project was delivered with both the Scottish and UK Governments contributing £2.4 million, with additional funding provided from developer contributions and Transport Scotland. Amongst the complimentary investments adding to the transformation of the area is Moda’s Holland Park apartment building.
James Blakey, Moda Group director of planning and engagement, commented, “The completion of the Avenues project surrounding Moda, Holland Park is a significant milestone in a transformation that has created greener, more pedestrian-friendly spaces that benefit residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Moda is proud to have supported these improvements, reinforcing our commitment to investing in the city’s future and working in partnership with Glasgow City Council and other stakeholders to ensure our neighbourhoods and surrounding areas continue to thrive for generations to come.”
