The city has unveiled a transformative plan to reshape its public realm, marking the most significant overhaul since the pedestrianisation of Buchanan Street in the 1970s. The ambitious project, funded through the City Deal and other government programs, will see the creation of 11 "Avenues" across the city centre.

Work on the Avenues is set to begin in early 2025, with major thoroughfares like Argyle Street, the Broomielaw, Clyde Street, George Square, and surrounding areas undergoing significant transformations. The project builds upon the successful completion of similar work on Sauchiehall, Pitt, and Cambridge Streets.

The Avenues initiative aims to enhance the aesthetic appeal of key streets, stimulate investment and economic growth, and create a more attractive environment for residents. By prioritizing pedestrian and active travel, increasing green spaces, and improving flood resilience, the project will also play a crucial role in Glasgow's efforts to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.

The city council has expressed confidence that the Avenues will not only enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors but also contribute to a more sustainable and vibrant Glasgow.

Councillor Angus Millar, City Convener for City Centre Recovery, said the transformation would help deliver on the ambitions for the city centre, with benefits Glasgow would enjoy for decades to come.

He said: "Our city centre has undoubtedly been impacted in recent years by multiple and overlapping challenges, from the legacy of the pandemic, fires, and absentee property owners to the shift to online retail and cost-of-living and inflation crises.

"But it's increasingly a focal point for major investment, for population growth and we have a responsibility to nurture that and create the cosmopolitan feel Glasgow deserves.

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"We know from our own past that when we make these changes, Glasgow has flourished. The pedestrianisation of Buchanan Street in the 1970s was the catalyst for it becoming one of the most successful streets on these islands. But it also signalled the transformation of Glasgow away from its post-industrial past.

"We're experiencing a similar period of transition just now and the Avenues can be the foundations for a city centre which gives people more reasons to visit, to invest in Glasgow and to make the city centre their home."

Design work on 14 individual Avenues projects is progressing, with construction work set to begin in early 2025. Notably, this includes the closure of George Square and commencement of works on surrounding streets, as well as the reconfiguration of the eastern end of Argyle Street.

Work on a number of the projects will extend onto the later months of 2027, including High Street and Broomielaw/Clyde Street. The George Street to Duke Street Avenue will be completed in 2028.

Throughout the works, the council will have the Get Ready Glasgow information portal, used during major events, in place to keep residents and businesses informed and to provide points of contact for queries and updates. Some of the works will also be in place in the build-up to, and during, the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Councillor Ruairi Kelly, City Convener for Neighbourhood Services and Assets, said: "The Avenues roll-out has already been delayed by the pandemic so it's critical that we push on with the transformation of the city centre. There will of course be some disruption but we're putting in place the foundations for the next century and can assure Glaswegians that the hassle will be worth it.

"And right throughout the process we'll ensure residents and businesses are kept informed of progress and disruption is kept to a minimum."

The planned works have been welcomed by business leaders, major developers, employers and city-based organisations. Stuart Patrick, Chief Executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, said the business community welcomed the scale of the investment which would enhance the city's look and feel while making it more attractive for visitors, investors, and workers.

He added: "The next phase of the Avenues project is crucial for repositioning Glasgow to meet modern economic needs. While some disruption is inevitable, we are working with Get Glasgow Ready to keep businesses fully informed. We encourage all businesses to engage with the programme to minimise any impact and ensure a smooth transition."

Property developers Moda Group, which is behind the 430-home Holland Park development near Charing Cross, contributed £360,000 towards the Avenues Project along Holland Street and Pitt Street.

Planning and Engagement Director James Blakey said residents, visitors and the wider community will benefit from the scheme. He said: "The Avenues Project is a brilliant example of the long-term benefits that come from public and private organisations working collaboratively."

Audrey Carlin, Chief Executive of Wasps Studios, which is transforming The Briggait Clydeside Market Halls into a vibrant riverside destination, said: "The Avenues Project aligns with our ambitions by fostering a more sustainable, accessible, and attractive city centre, encouraging people to explore and spend more time by the river. Through reanimating our section of Clyde Street with markets, cafés, and events, we aim to make a significant contribution to Glasgow's goal of a more pedestrian-friendly, vibrant city centre."