The first 'Avenue' to be delivered across Glasgow city centre in a £115 million programme has been completed.
Sauchiehall Avenue, on Sauchiehall Street between Charing Cross and Rose Street, has taken two years and £7.2m.
The Avenues programme is set to transform 17 key streets and adjacent areas over the coming years in the biggest scheme of its kind in the UK.
Key features of Sauchiehall Avenue include enhanced and widened pavements that free up space for pedestrians and licensed tables and chairs.
New (two-way) cycle paths, junction upgrades, 27 new trees, new bus shelters, cycle stands, and seating, are part of the new look.
The project was designed and delivered after consultation and collaboration with local residents, businesses and organisations.
It aims to regenerate this part of one of the most recognisable streets in Glasgow and Scotland.
'Additional investment'
The Avenues project is funded by the UK and Scottish Governments under the £1 billion Glasgow City Region City Deal.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity Michael Matheson said: “I’m delighted to see that the results of our £500 million investment into the Glasgow City Region Deal’s Infrastructure Investment Fund are beginning to be seen.
"We are committed to developing an Active Nation, where more people have opportunities to walk and cycle than ever before.
"This is an example of additional investment in high quality active travel infrastructure over and above the £80 million we spend every year.
"The rate of cycling into Glasgow City Centre has more than doubled since 2009 and the Avenues project will build on this demand and accelerate this positive rate of change.
"I look forward to seeing the city continue to transform as both residents and businesses take advantage of the opportunities it will create.”
UK Government Minister Colin Clark said: “I’m delighted that the regeneration works for Sauchiehall Avenue on one of Scotland’s most famous streets are now complete and that businesses, shoppers and residents can enjoy the improvements.
"Glasgow is a world class city and quality enhancements such as these reflect its global status.
"This is just the beginning of a £115 million programme to transform public spaces across the city that the UK Government is jointly funding."
