Glasgow metro system would be 'twice the size of Manchester Metrolink'

A metro system across Glasgow and surrounding areas would be “twice the size of Manchester’s Metrolink”, it has been reported.

The project was recently named as one of 45 schemes across Scotland which have been recommended for investment over the next 20 years.

And members of the Glasgow City Region cabinet, which includes leaders from eight councils, received an update on Tuesday on how the plan will progress.

A council officer said the project’s inclusion in the second Strategic Transport Projects Review (STPR2) was “welcome and positive news”.

He added the metro is a “huge ambition” which, in terms of scale, is likely to be “twice the size of Manchester’s Metrolink” and could cost between £11bn and £16bn.

A consultation process is now under way, running until April 15, and the council officer said: “We’re committed to working closely with Transport Scotland to build pace and momentum in terms of engagement and communications.”

Final recommendations for STPR2 are expected to be confirmed around autumn this year, the officer said.

He added: “We will be working closely with our partner organisations to set up some interim governance arrangements.

“There has also been the setting up of a Clyde Metro programme steering group, with chief officials across partner organisations.”

It is estimated 1.5 million people will be better connected to employment, education and health services.

The council officer said: “It’s fundamentally about improving connectivity and accessibility, addressing unserved and underserved communities across the region, improving access to key hubs, centres and facilities and creating new interchange opportunities.”

He said a map of the planned metro is currently “very high level” and will be “taken forward for development and the next stage of the business case”.