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What is the Avenues Programme? 

The Avenues Programme is a £115 million initiative funded by the Glasgow City Region City Deal. It aims to transform Glasgow city centre by creating a network of pedestrian and cycle routes, enhancing public spaces, and introducing sustainable green infrastructure 

What are the main goals of the Avenues Programme? 

The programme aims to: 

• Prioritize active travel (walking and cycling) 
• Improve connectivity within the city 
• Introduce green infrastructure like street trees and rain gardens 
• Enhance public transport accommodation 
• Reduce street clutter and improve lighting 

Which areas are being transformed under the Avenues Programme? 

The programme covers 21 locations across Glasgow city centre, divided into blocks of work. Some key areas include Argyle Street, Sauchiehall Street, Cathedral Street, and North Hanover Street.

When is the Avenues Programme expected to be completed? 

The programme is scheduled to be completed by 2028, with various phases of construction and design work ongoing. 

How is the Avenues Programme Funded?  

The programme is funded by the Glasgow City Region City Deal, which includes contributions from both the Scottish and UK Governments, additional funding from Sustrans was also obtained for some of the projects. 

What specific Improvements can be expected? 

 Improvements include: 

• Enhanced and widened footways 
• Segregated cycle lanes 
• Single surface crossing points 
• Intelligent Street Lighting (ISL) 
• Sustainable green infrastructure like rain gardens 

These improvements are designed to create a more pedestrian-friendly, sustainable, and attractive city centre, benefiting both residents and visitors. 

• Green/Blue Infrastructure: Introduction of street trees, planting, and rain gardens to manage rainwater and enhance the urban environment. 
• Enhanced and Widened Footways: Footways will be widened and improved to provide more space and comfort for pedestrians. 
• Segregated Cycle Lanes: Dedicated cycle lanes will be created to ensure safer and more efficient travel for cyclists. 
• Single Surface Crossing Points: These crossings will provide a seamless transition for pedestrians, making it easier and safer to cross streets. 
• Reduced Street Clutter: Efforts will be made to declutter streets by removing unnecessary obstacles and improving the overall aesthetic 
• Intelligent Street Lighting (ISL): Improved lighting features, including intelligent street lighting, will enhance safety and visibility. 

What are Rain Gardens? 

A rain garden offers the opportunity to manage rainwater runoff from hard surfaces after downpours by planting an attractive, low-maintenance, wildlife - friendly space. 

A rain garden is typically an area of low-level planting which uses layers of different soils which act as a kind of sieve so that water drains through more slowly helping to minimise localised flooding and pressure on the cities drainage system. 

Rain gardens are part of Glasgow's commitment to finding sustainable solutions to the climate emergency whilst creating a vibrant place for people to live and work. 

What are the Benefits for Residents? 

• Improved Active Travel Options: The programme prioritises walking and cycling by creating safer, more accessible routes. This encourages healthier lifestyles and reduces reliance on cars 
• Enhanced Public Spaces: Public spaces will be transformed with widened footways, green infrastructure like street trees and rain gardens, and reduced street clutter. This makes the city more attractive and enjoyable for residents 
• Better Connectivity: The new network of pedestrian and cycle routes improves connectivity within the city, making it easier for residents to move around 
• Environmental Benefits: The introduction of green infrastructure helps manage rainwater, reduce urban heat, and improve air quality. This contributes to a more sustainable and resilient urban environment 
• Increased Safety Improvements: Such as segregated cycle lanes and intelligent street lighting enhance safety for all road users, particularly pedestrians and cyclists 
• Economic Boost: By making the city more attractive and accessible, the programme can stimulate local businesses and attract investment, benefiting the local economy 
• Social Benefits: Enhanced public spaces and better connectivity foster a sense of community and encourage social interactions among residents 

These benefits collectively aim to improve the quality of life for Glasgow's residents, making the city a more vibrant, sustainable, and enjoyable place to live. 

How can I stay informed about the progress of the Avenues Programme?  

Updates and progress reports are regularly published on the Glasgow City Council website and through public consultations. Progress reports on the Avenues Programme are provided to the following Council Committees: 

• Economy, Housing, Transport and Regeneration City Policy Committee 
• Environment and Liveable Neighbourhoods City Policy Committee 

Will there be public consultations during construction? 

Glasgow City Council has emphasised the importance of engaging with the community throughout the project. Here are some key points: 

• Extensive Consultation Process: The council has conducted extensive consultations, including on-street events and meetings with local community councils and other local stakeholders during the design phases. 
• Concept Design Feedback: Public consultations have been held to gather feedback on concept designs, ensuring that the community's input is considered in the final plans. 
• Traffic Regulation Orders: Most, but not all of the Avenues will introduce changes to the road layout. If a scheme introduces changes, the Council is required to produce a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO). The TRO process is set out in Local Authorities' Traffic Orders (Procedure)(Scotland) Regulations 1999. It involves a statutory public consultation period, Statutory notices regarding the public consultation exercise are published in the local press with associated notifications issued locally. 
• Ongoing Engagement: As the project progresses to construction, there will be ongoing public engagement through social media updates and campaigns to inform residents about the construction process 
• Regular Updates: Regular updates and progress reports will be provided to keep the public informed about the project's status and any changes to traffic management or construction schedules. 

What measures are introduced through the Avenues programme to better promote accessibility, safety and inclusivity for all users? 

All Avenues schemes are designed to ensure compliance with national design standards and guidance, including: Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) - CD 195 Designing for Cycle Traffic; Transport Scotland's Cycling By Design Guidance; and Department for Transport's Guidance on the use of tactile paving surfaces (most recent version published January 2022). All schemes are also subject to Road Safety Audits. 

The spectrum of vulnerable users' is very wide and the needs of users with learning disabilities, visual impairments, mobility impairments, elderly etc are different and often conflicting. It is often not possible to cater to these different and conflicting needs completely, without disadvantaging another group of users. 

Council design and engineering teams are sensitive to this position and take a balanced approach to the design of all active travel, sustainable transport and public realm schemes, including the Avenues. All such schemes are subject to a standard Equalities Impact Assessment (EqIA) approach, which considers the needs of those with protected characteristic and where necessary introduces reasonable adjustments to designs. Information on the Council's EqIA procedures, including published EqIA screening reports for the Avenues, is available here.

Throughout the design and development stages, designers will consider: the differing needs of vulnerable users through the EqIA approach; the specifics of the location; and, views and feedback from vulnerable user groups during the community consultation exercises. Designers will then decide if specific elements of designs requires to be adapted / amended to better promote accessibility, safety and inclusivity for users. 

is the design of the Avenues are fairly conventional in that they set rules for the use of space by clearly defining spaces for pedestrians, cyclists and motor vehicles by using physical measures such as colour contrast, kerb delineation, lines and signs and tactile paving and cones. To assist users at junctions, an array of standard measures are considered such as the use of signal-controlled crossings, tactiles, colour and lines and signage. This is a standard UK approach which all users will be familiar with, again conforming to national standards and guidance.  

Where can I find out information about awarded Avenues construction contracts? 

Council construction projects, which reach contract award, are approved by the Council's Contracts & Property Committee. Information relating to awarded contracts is publicly available on the Council's website.

What Traffic Management Measures are in place for during the work? 

During the construction phases of the Avenues Programme, several measures will be implemented to manage traffic and minimize disruption. These measures aim to balance the need for construction with the importance of maintaining normal traffic flow and minimizing inconvenience for residents and businesses. 

• Phased Construction: Construction will be carried out in phases to limit the impact on any single area at a time 
• Temporary Traffic Diversions: Temporary traffic diversions will be put in place to redirect vehicles around construction zones. Clear signage will be provided to guide drivers 
• Maintaining Access: Access to businesses and residences will be maintained throughout the construction period. Efforts will be made to ensure minimal disruption to daily activities 
• Communication with the Public: Regular updates will be provided to residents and businesses about the progress of the construction and any changes to traffic management plans. This will help keep everyone informed and prepared 
• Coordination with Public Transport: Coordination with public transport providers will ensure that services continue to operate smoothly, with any necessary adjustments communicated in advance 
• Safety Measures: Safety measures, including barriers and clear signage, will be in place to protect both the public and construction workers. 

Is there any Support for Businesses Impacted by the Construction of the Avenues?  

This is something which is assessed avenue by avenue by the valuer's department within the Council. Where appropriate, a reduction in the rateable values will be applied, with formal notice issued in the form of statutory valuation notices. 

Further information can be found at www.saa.gov.uk.  

For more information on matters concerning rates relief, the Non-Domestic Rates team will be able to advise. 

Why did work stop on Sauchiehall Street Precinct? 

The delay to the works on the Precinct was due to the discovery of uncharted underground utilities which meant some elements of the design needed to be amended. This design work has now been completed, with the contractors back on site and making good progress, unfortunately this has meant a delay to the project program. 

How does the Avenues Programme align to the GCC Strategic Plan? 

The Avenues Programme aligns closely with the Glasgow City Council's Strategic Plan for 2022-2027 by focusing on several key areas that are central to the Council's vision for the city. Here are some of the main points of alignment: 

• Enhancing Connectivity and Active Travel: The Avenues Programme aims to transform Glasgow's city centre by making it safer and easier for everyone to walk, wheel, and cycle. This aligns with the Council's goal of improving connectivity and promoting active travel as outlined in the Glasgow Transport Strategy 
• Sustainable Infrastructure: The programme includes investments in green spaces, public transport, and pedestrian and cycle routes. This supports the Council's commitment to sustainability and reducing car vehicle kilometres, which is a key objective in the Council's strategic plan 
• Economic and Social Inclusion: By improving the city centre's infrastructure, the Avenues Programme aims to create a more inclusive and accessible environment for all residents and visitors. This aligns with the Council's goals of promoting social inclusion and economic development 
• Climate and Ecological Emergency Response: The Avenues Programme's focus on sustainable green infrastructure and reducing street clutter contributes to the Council's efforts to address the climate and ecological emergencies. This is a significant aspect of the Council's strategic plan 
• Community Engagement and Public Realm Improvements: The Programme's emphasis on creating a network of continuous pedestrian and cycle routes designed with people at the heart reflects the Council's commitment to engaging with the community and improving public spaces 

Overall, the Avenues Programme supports the Glasgow City Council's strategic objectives by enhancing the city's infrastructure, promoting sustainability, and improving the quality of life for its residents and visitors. 

How does it align to the Council's Four Grand Challenges? 

Overall, the Avenues Programme supports Glasgow City Council's strategic objectives by enhancing the city's infrastructure, promoting sustainability, and improving the quality of life for its residents and visitors The Avenues Programme aligns with Glasgow City Council's four grand challenges outlined in the Strategic Plan for 2022-2027 in several ways: 

• Reducing Inequality: The Avenues Programme aims to create a more inclusive and accessible environment for all residents and visitors by improving the city's infrastructure. This includes enhanced and widened footways, single surface crossing points, and segregated cycle lanes, which support those with disabilities or additional mobility needs. By prioritizing active travel and improving connectivity, the programme ensures that all residents, regardless of their socio-economic status, have access to safe and convenient transportation options 
• Tackling the Climate Emergency: The programme includes investments in green infrastructure like street trees, planting, and rain gardens, which help manage rainwater, reduce urban heat, and improve air quality. These efforts contribute to the Council's goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability. The Avenues Programme's focus on reducing car vehicle kilometres and promoting active travel also aligns with the Council's commitment to addressing the climate and ecological emergencies 
• Improving Health and Wellbeing: By creating a network of continuous pedestrian and cycle routes, the Avenues Programme encourages walking, wheeling, and cycling, which promote healthier lifestyles. The programme's emphasis on creating liveable neighbourhoods that prioritize people and place while reducing the impact of private vehicles supports the Council's goals of improving the mental, physical, and economic wellbeing of the people of Glasgow. 
• Promoting Inclusive Economic Growth: The Avenues Programme involves a significant investment of £115 million, making it the largest project of its kind in the UK. This investment is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the city. By improving the city's infrastructure and making Glasgow more attractive to businesses and tourists, the programme boosts the local economy and supports the Council's goals of promoting social inclusion and economic development. 

Does the Avenues Programme align with any other City Strategies? 

The development and delivery of the Avenues programme is also part of a wider approach within the city to encourage modal shift and reduce vehicular capacity, as noted inthe Council's: Active Travel Strategy 2022 - 2031 (approved by the Council's City Administration Committee on 24th February 2022); and Glasgow Transport Strategy (GTS - approved by City Administration Committee on 21st November 2024). 

Policy 11 of the GTS specifically states:
"To ensure that our city remains attractive and vibrant and supports sustainable travel choices, the Council will redesign roads, parking and vehicle related space in the city to support sustainable transport where possible. This includes reallocation of road space for walking, wheeling, cycling, public transport and shared transport. It also includes reallocation of parking spaces for sustainable transport as well as enhancing the quality of local places and environments." 

The GTS also sets ambitious targets for private vehicle km reductions. Active travel / sustainable transport schemes, such as the Avenues programme, will play an important part in meeting the minimum 30% reduction in car vehicle kms which has been set city wide and achieving the Council's and Scottish Government's net zero carbon targets. 

What is the Economic Impact of the Avenues Programme? 

The Avenues Programme is set to have a significant economic impact on Glasgow. Here are some key points: 

• Investment and Job Creation: The programme involves an investment of £115 million, making it the largest project of its kind in the UK. This substantial investment is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the city. 
• Public and Private Investment: The programme has attracted significant public sector investment, with over £200 million already invested in Glasgow city centre since 2019. Additionally, £120 million is committed to ongoing projects that will span the duration of the new City Centre Strategy 
• Boosting Local Economy: By improving the city's infrastructure, the Avenues Programme aims to make Glasgow more attractive to businesses and tourists. This is expected to boost the local economy by increasing footfall and spending in the city centre 
• Supporting Regeneration: The programme is part of a broader strategy to regenerate Glasgow city centre, which includes major developments such as the transformation of key streets like Sauchiehall Street Precinct and Argyle Street. 

How does the Avenues Programme Address Social Inclusion? 

The Avenues Programme also addresses social inclusion in several ways: 

• Accessible Infrastructure: The programme aims to create a barrier-free transport system that supports those with disabilities or additional mobility needs. This includes enhanced and widened footways, single surface crossing points, and segregated cycle lanes 
• Community Engagement: The programme emphasizes engaging with Glasgow's diverse communities to develop and deliver services that are inclusive and accessible. This is central to the Council's commitment to improving the mental, physical, and economic wellbeing of the people of Glasgow 
• Promoting Active Travel: By prioritizing space for active travel and improving connectivity, the programme encourages walking, wheeling, and cycling. This not only promotes a healthier lifestyle but also ensures that all residents, regardless of their socio-economic status, have access to safe and convenient transportation options 
• Green and Public Spaces: The programme includes investments in green spaces and public transport, making the city centre more inclusive and accessible for all residents and visitors. This aligns with the Council's goals of promoting social inclusion and economic development. 

How are you measuring the success of the avenues programme? 

The success of the Avenues Programme is being measured through a comprehensive monitoring framework that includes various indicators and metrics.

Here are some key aspects of how the success is being evaluated: 

• Monitoring Framework: The Glasgow Transport Strategy outlines a monitoring framework that includes specific indicators to track progress. This framework helps assess whether the goals of the Avenues Programme are being achieved 
• Community-Driven Metrics: The programme focuses on creating liveable neighbourhoods that prioritize people and place while reducing the impact of private vehicles. Success is measured by the extent to which these community-driven goals are met 
• Economic and Social Metrics: The programme's impact on the local economy and social inclusion is also monitored. This includes metrics such as job creation, public and private investment, and improvements in accessibility and inclusivity 
• Environmental Impact: The success of the Avenues Programme is also measured by its contribution to sustainability goals. This includes reducing car vehicle kilometres, increasing green spaces, and promoting active travel 
• Public Engagement and Feedback: The programme emphasizes engaging with the community and gathering feedback to ensure that the improvements meet the needs of residents and visitors. This feedback is used to adjust and refine the programme as needed.

Accessibility and Translation 

This information can be made available for you in a variety of alternate forms and community languages on request. 

If you would like more information about this or would like to request an alternative format or language, including BSL please contact Equality at Glasgow or City Centre Avenues Team.

Got a question or comment please email us at City Centre Avenues