The ambitious transformation of Glasgow’s landmark George Square has moved into a tangible phase with the commencement of the erection of hoardings around the perimeter of the civic space. Starting today, the hoardings will enclose the Square for the duration of its 18-month redevelopment.

The panels adorning the hoardings will showcase a visual narrative of Glasgow's history and present, while also providing a glimpse into the future vision for both George Square and the wider city.

Following the complete installation of the hoardings in May, the Square's prominent bronze statues are scheduled for removal to undergo restoration work and secure storage. Subsequently, the site will be handed over to the public realm contractors, whose appointment is expected in early May. These contractors will then commence the main restoration works at the beginning of June.

Councillor Angus Millar, Convener for City Centre Recovery at Glasgow City Council, expressed his anticipation that Glaswegians will be enthusiastic to witness the George Square transformation getting underway. While acknowledging the temporary closure of the Square, he assured that the completed project would deliver a civic space of which both Glaswegians and Scotland can be proud.

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

The installation of the almost 500-metre long and over two-metre high hoardings is being undertaken by specialists EVM, who have previously worked on significant Glasgow events such as the 2014 Commonwealth Games, COP26, and the 2023 UCI World Cycling Championships. The extent of the hoardings will necessitate the temporary closure of a road lane adjacent to the Square. However, the taxi rank situated in front of the Millennium Hotel will remain operational throughout the construction period.

Pedestrian access will be maintained along the outer pavements surrounding the Square, and dedicated viewing spaces on the east and west sides of the hoarding will allow the public to observe the progress of the redevelopment works.

Glasgow City Council has pledged to keep businesses and residents informed of any significant disruptions during the construction phase, with regular progress reports also being made publicly available.