Glasgow vows to end ‘car-domination’

A People First Zone – where pedestrians would have priority over vehicles – has been placed at the heart of plans to transform Glasgow city centre. Under the proposals, Glasgow City Council hopes to create an area of ‘high-quality public realm’ that encourages walking, wheeling and cycling.

It pledges to maintain access for disabled drivers, pick up and drop off at key transport hubs and business deliveries. The People First Zone would cover an area bounded by Hope Street, Cowcaddens Road, North Hanover Street, Glassford Street and Howard Street.

Within the zone, crossing points would ensure pedestrians have less distance and more time to cross the road in an environment that is quieter and cleaner.

The council says rebalancing how street space is used in the city centre would also allow for a growth in civic spaces, pocket parks, parklets and street cafes.

Cllr Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “Cities everywhere are successfully transforming their centres to become more attractive, liveable spaces and Glasgow should be no different.

“We can move away from an area which is car-dominated to one that is healthier for all who use it and which will contribute to our active travel and net-zero targets. Much less traffic, but better connectivity, would deliver real benefits for city businesses, as well as residents and visitors.”