EXCLUSIVE: The Sunday Splash

Shawlands Cycle Lane Proposals Spark Concerns Over Consultation Process

Proposals A new cycle lane could be introduced in Kilmarnock Road, Shawlands, as part of the City Newtwork plans. All pictures by Gary Fanning

EXCLUSIVE by Gary Fanning

Residents and businesses in Shawlands have voiced concerns over a perceived lack of consultation regarding Glasgow City Council’s plans to introduce a new cycle lane along Kilmarnock Road, which could result in the removal of parking spaces.

Many residents and business owners say they were unaware of the proposal, which is part of the council’s broader initiative to expand the Inner South area of the City Network, aimed at enhancing active travel routes across the city.

One resident expressed frustration over the process, citing difficulties in accessing information, asking: “Does anyone even know about this?

“We have until October 20 to raise concerns, but it took me two days just to find the route information for Kilmarnock Road—it’s buried online.”

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The resident added: “It feels like the council is avoiding direct engagement with businesses and residents, likely because of the impact this will have on parking.

“There’s barely any mention of businesses in the documentation.”

Local Businesses Uninformed

Business owners in the area are also voicing their discontent.

A long-time resident and local business owner, who has lived in Shawlands for 25 years, criticised the lack of communication.

“I’ve lived here for decades, and I didn’t know anything about this,” he said.

“People are angry when I tell them. I’ve spoken to around 15 businesses, and none of them were aware of the plans.

.“We’re frustrated—we should have received direct communication, just like we do for roadworks.”

Another local business owner shared similar concerns, fearing the loss of parking spaces could deter customers and impact footfall.

Safety Issues Raised

While some business owners are worried about the economic impact, residents have also raised safety concerns, particularly for cyclists.

“I live on Kilmarnock Road, but it’s too dangerous for me to cycle on it,” said one local resident. “I can’t even cross the road safely to get to the shops. This area needs better infrastructure.”

Several community members have called for an extension of the consultation period, citing the number of residents and businesses still unaware of the plans.

Many believe more time is needed to adequately consider the potential impact of the proposed cycle lanes.

Council Responds to Criticism

In response to these concerns, a council spokesperson said the proposed active travel route on Kilmarnock Road is still in the early stages of planning.

“The potential route is part of our City Network initiative, which aims to create approximately 270km of safe, segregated cycle routes across Glasgow,” the spokesperson explained.

“We have promoted the public consultation through leaflets, social media, and community drop-in events. The consultation is open until Sunday, and all feedback will be taken into account as we move towards the next design phase.”

The council added that around 50,000 households in the affected areas had been sent information leaflets, and paper copies of the survey are available at local libraries.

Ward councillor Zen Ghani, responding to concerns raised at a recent Shawlands and Strathbungo Community Council meeting, acknowledged the frustration but emphasised that these proposals have been in development for several years.

“This is not a new plan,” Councillor Ghani said. “I’ll be raising these issues with the senior officer responsible.”

City Network’s Broader Goals

The Kilmarnock Road proposal forms part of the City Network’s ambitious plan to expand active travel infrastructure across Glasgow, with the goal of promoting cycling and walking as sustainable alternatives to car use.

The initiative is a key element of the city’s strategy to reduce carbon emissions and contribute to Glasgow’s commitment to becoming a net-zero city by 2030.

“The development of these segregated routes is crucial for creating a sustainable transport system that serves the needs of all residents,” the council spokesperson said. “We are committed to engaging with the community throughout this process and ensuring the final designs reflect the feedback we receive.”

Community Input Encouraged

Despite assurances from the council, many Shawlands residents remain sceptical about the process.

With the consultation deadline today, locals are urging others to make their voices heard.

Residents and business owners can submit their views via the public consultation page on the council’s website here.

Your views can also be sent to news@glasgowsplash.com