EXCLUSIVE: Garnethill Residents Voice Safety Concerns Amid Delays in Sauchiehall Street Revamp

One woman voiced fears about raised metal tree surrounds, calling them "lethal."

EXCLUSIVE by Gary Fanning

Residents in Garnethill have raised concerns about the ongoing work to revamp Sauchiehall Street and its surrounding areas, expressing frustrations over safety issues related to the project.

The revamp has been delayed due to several factors, including the unexpected discovery of underground utilities that required diversion by electric companies. 

The project, which is divided into multiple sections, is now expected to be completed in phases over the next year.

Sections 1, 2, and 3, which cover Cambridge Street and the upper part of Sauchiehall Street between Rose Street and Cambridge Street, are scheduled for completion by December 2024. 

These areas will also see new planting, and pedestrian diversions are set to be removed. There will be no fencing along the precinct during the Christmas break.

All businesses guaranteed access between December 19 and January 7, free from any construction barriers.

Section 4, from Cambridge Street to Wellington Street down to Hope Street, is expected to be finished by December, with planting extending into the new year.

Meanwhile, Section 5, which includes the middle section between Hope Street and Renfield Street, has fencing in place while trial pits are dug to assess underground conditions.

If no issues arise, this part of the project could be expedited, with tree pits to be installed and temporarily covered with black tar.

Section 6 is expected to begin after Christmas, running from January to April. 

But Garnethill Community council heard that some concerns remain among residents when they were given an update on the project by Emma Hargreaves, of the Glasgow City Centre Regeneration project.

Subscribe now to The Splash Glasgow to read the full story and support local journalism that fights for your community.