Statues removed from Glasgow's George Square as redevelopment begins

The statues have been removed from Glasgow’s George Square ahead of redevelopment work in the area.

The statues will undergo restoration before being returned to the finished square from July 2027, while work on George Square itself is expected to be completed by August 2026.

Plans include a water feature, a raised lawn, sheltered seating, feature lighting, and play areas for children.

George Square will close as hoardings will go up from April 14, with the panels showing information about the past and future plans for the square.

A statue of Robert Burns is the first to be removed from Glasgow's George Square. — A statue of Robert Burns is the first to be removed from Glasgow’s George Square. STV News

After the hoardings have been erected, the bronze statues are being removed for restoration and storage.

The square will be handed over to the public realm contractors, due to be appointed this month, who will begin carrying out the main restoration works from the start of June.

Pedestrian access will be maintained around its outer pavements while viewing spaces on the east and west sides of the hoarding will give the opportunity to watch the development of the works.

During construction, Glasgow City Council says it is committed to ensuring businesses and residents are kept informed of any significant disruption, with progress reports to be made publicly available.

Councillor Angus Millar, convener for City Centre Recovery, said Glaswegians will be excited to see the George Square transformation get under way.

“George Square’s restoration is a huge and historic project and so much work has already gone into its planning and design,” he said.

“Once complete next year, Glasgow will have a modern square with more greenery, improved lighting and drainage infrastructure and a high-quality stone finish to replace the current tarmac.

“This will be a momentous month for the city, with the erection of the hoardings in less than a fortnight’s time firing the starting pistol on a real acceleration of the works.

“George Square is built into the DNA of this city, and Glaswegians have wanted to see its restoration for decades. In just a couple of weeks, they’ll see that start to happen.

“Of course, that means the square will be closed to the public once the hoardings start going up and that will be an inconvenience.

“But by next autumn, Glaswegians will have a new square on a par with many of our international peers, one they can be proud of and one which is fitting of a city of our standing.”