Glasgow City Council has issued a fresh update on the George Square redevelopment, confirming significant progress around the square ahead of the festive period and outlining next steps, including further footway works in early January and a three-month closure of the north carriageway to complete stone surfacing.

Glasgow City Council said: "Works on the north footway of West George Street, between Dundas Street and the entrance to Queen Street Station, are complete, with the exception of planting in the raingardens. Planting will be carried out when weather conditions permit. Since the last update, works have continued from the station entrance along the north footways of George Square, between the station and North Hanover Street, and extending to North Frederick Street. These sections have progressed well with natural stone slabs now being laid and remain on programme for completion ahead of the festive period.

Progress is also being made on the west side of the Square. All ground preparation is complete, and slabs have been laid from the northwest corner down to the entrance of Merchants House. These works are also scheduled for completion by the festive period.

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Work at the front of the Chambers is now complete, and the footpath has reopened along its full length, allowing pedestrians to pass through. On Monday, 8 December, work will begin to reposition the hoarding onto the newly paved footway, moving it closer to the Chambers. This adjustment will allow construction to continue further into the Square, while pedestrian access along this side will be maintained.

Within George Square, excavation of the raingarden in the northeast corner is complete. Scaffolding around the equestrian statues has been dismantled following completion of works to the plinths. Scaffolding is now being erected around the Sir Walter Scott monument in preparation for inspections, followed by works in the new year. Completion of the scaffolding is scheduled for 19 December.

Work is programmed to start on the south footway of George Square between Queen Street and South Frederick Street on 5 January. This will involve reconstruction of the existing footway in natural stone, replicating the works currently taking place on the north side. To facilitate these works, the timber decking at the top end of Queen Street and St Vincent Place will be removed. While the works are underway, pedestrian access will be maintained and the road will remain open.

Starting on 12 January, works are programmed for the north carriageway of the Square. This will involve constructing the carriageway, between Queen Street and North Frederick Street, in natural stone. To ensure the works are carried out safely and efficiently, a road closure will be in place during this phase, which is scheduled to last three months. Consultations with transportation services have been undertaken to minimise disruption and establish suitable diversion routes. Please find attached PDF showing diversion arrangements while the closure is in place.

In addition to the above, there are plans to reposition the hoarding on the north and westsides in the new year. This will assist with continuing the new footway constructions into the Square."