Glasgow's Byres Road to be transformed into retail, food and drink hub after council approve plans

A full redesign of one of Glasgow’s most popular streets has been approved, with work set to begin in January 2023.

The public realm work was approved by the Glasgow City Region Cabinet on Tuesday, which will see the city’s Byres Road become a major retail, food and drink destination.

Aiming to rejuvenate the quality of the Byres Road streetscape, the project will focus an emphasis on pedestrians, as well as enhancing the economic vibrancy of shops and services, and making the area more cycle and environment friendly.

The first phase of the works will focus on Partick Cross to University Avenue and will begin in January 2023 and be complete by summer 2024.

The second phase- between University Avenue and Great Western Road – will be delivered under a separate contract and will commence following completion of the first phase.

The designs for the project were confirmed after a series of engagement sessions and workshops.

Councillor Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council and chair of the Glasgow City Region Cabinet, said: “Residents, businesses and everyone who comes to Byres Road will enjoy the benefit of this work, which will significantly improve the public realm there, raising the quality of pavements and public spaces, and making it easier for people using different modes of travel to get around this great Glasgow street.”

John Turner, chair of the Byres Road and Lanes Business Information District (BID) said: “We are very pleased that, after the considerable delays caused by the pandemic, the planned improvements to Byres Road will finally be getting under way early in 2023.

“We are eagerly awaiting the completion of the works and trust that they will enhance Byres Road in its position as a top visitor destination.

“The Byres Road and Lanes BID is looking forward to working closely with the council and their contractors to ensure that the work, while necessary, will be done in such a way that will cause the minimum of disruption to the existing businesses and residents of the area.

“The message to everyone is: Byres Road is Open for Business!”

Scottish Government business minister Ivan McKee said: “This project will encourage cycling and walking in the west end of Glasgow, creating more liveable and sustainable communities, and is to be welcomed.

“The Scottish Government is funding the Glasgow City Region City deal in line with our National Strategy for Economic Transformation plans to promote greener local living and stronger regions.”

UK government minister for Scotland Malcolm Offord said: “It’s fantastic to see the improvements to Byres Road begin enhancing the city’s already vibrant west end.

“The new pedestrian and cycle routes alongside the creation of eco-friendly spaces will make space for both residents and visitors to enjoy.

“The UK Government is investing £49m in improvements to Glasgow’s Waterfront and West End Innovation Quarter as part of our £523m support for the Glasgow City Region Deal.”