MORE pedestrianised streets and fewer bus and car routes could soon be coming to Scotland's largest city following the launch of a think-tank charged with making Glasgow a more "breathable" space.
The local authority has announced the establishment of an independent Connectivity Commission, whose a remit will be to rethink the city centre as a destination for business, retail and leisure while encouraging walking and cutting pollution.
It will be led by Professor David Begg, one of the UK’s most prominent transport experts, and includes representatives from the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, Scottish Council for Development and Industry, Transform Scotland, Glasgow University and the City Centre Retail Association.
Prof Begg said: “One of the remits of the Commission will be to have a transport network which contributes both to a stronger economy, a healthier environment and social equity. These are the three key outcomes we will look to deliver.
“In order to achieve that we need to get more people onto public transport, walking and cycling, we need more quality pedestrian space and public realm to improve the retail environment and city centre experience and cleaner vehicles.
“We need to both arrest decline and improve Glasgow’s offer. The Greater Glasgow area has such a fantastic urban rail network but if you live in a community which is not on the network and don’t have a car they are pretty marginalised. That must be addressed."
The commission's findings will be presented to the council in 12 months time.
Leader of Glasgow City Council Susan Aitken said: “The Glasgow Connectivity Commission has the crucial job of improving the city centre experience for all, which offers fantastic economic opportunity for the city.
“Their remit is their largely own but we anticipate transformative proposals on making Glasgow city centre more attractive for visitors, an improved experience for business, leisure and retail.
“These proposals can help us to further develop the local economy and ensure all of Glasgow’s people can share in the prosperity created in the city centre."
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