Work begins on replacement for historic Glasgow footbridge

Network Rail has started construction to reconnect pedestrians between Darnley Road and Moray Place.

The new structure is expected to be completed in four months.

Drivers are warned that a single-lane closure is in place on Darnley Road between Sainsbury’s Local and Kildrostan Street from March 7 until June 19, 2023.

The new overpass is replacing a 146-year-old bridge which was rehomed in Angus by Caledonian Railway after being deemed ‘not viable’ to stay in the city.

Around 5,000 local residents and businesses were invited by Network Rail to vote for their preferred footbridge design in the summer of 2021.

Out of three design options, the majority of voters (85%) agreed on a bespoke curved design inspired by the former bridge.

The new steel truss structure will feature a toughened glass parapet and will also incorporate elements inspired by the defunct bridge, including the black and white colouring of the new structure and balustrades that will match the railings already installed at Moray Place.

The project is part of the Glasgow to Barrhead electrification project which is an offshoot of a Scottish Government investment to decarbonise passenger services across Scotland’s Railway by 2035.

Michelle McCaig, Network Rail’s project manager for the bridge work, said: “This is a significant phase of the overall project, especially given the previous involvement of the community in helping to choose a footbridge for their neighbourhood.

“Over the next three months, the structure will gradually start to emerge and by the summer it’ll reconnect Darnley Road and Moray Place. 

“Given the community played such an important part in choosing the design of the new bridge, I’m confident the footbridge will enjoy the same standing as its predecessor.

“We appreciate the inconvenience for residents as we deliver this work and thank them for their continued patience.”