Glasgow's chances of being the host of the next Eurovision Song Contest appear to be hotting up. The city is currently facing off with Liverpool to hold the event that attracts performers and visitors from across the world.
While the city appears to be the bookies favourite, local opinion has been divided as to whether Glasgow is ready to host the international event.
A recent household survey found that 43% of people think the city has “got worse over the last few years” while just 13% believe it has “got better”.
Ahead of the announcement of who will be getting the Eurovision glory, we're looking at a few things being done post-Covid across the city to make it look as attractive as possible to locals, visitors, and everyone in between.
Vacant shops
The council is currently dealing with various vacant shops and particular buildings on Sauchiehall and Argyle Street to find ways to keep them kind on the eye while they're out of use. Vinyls, hoarding, and other improvements are underway while some units are being used for short-term projects while longer-term occupiers are being sought.
Shopfronts at the Heilanman's Umbrella will be getting a new lease of life through a design competition supported by the Royal Institute of Architects. It's hoped the changes in colour, design, and lighting will bring in new commercial uses and reduce anti-social behaviour.
Read more: Glasgow Christmas light switch-on to return for first time in two years this festive season
Cleanliness
The city has already undergone a deep clean with additional cleans also due to take place focusing on de-weeding, sticker removal, minor graffiti removal, painting works, cleaning street furniture and bins, and power washing.
To improve the overall look of the city, the council's task force is carrying out initiatives around litter, chewing gum, planters, bin wraps, and hostile vehicle mitigation.
Murals
Every time we blink a new mural seems to appear and we're certainly not mad about it. The Yardworks GRID project has been bringing fantastic artworks to the city with large-scale murals creating an open-air gallery trail linking Partick, Yorkhill, and Govan and attracting visitors.
Graffiti street artist Rogue One has also been hard at work with his latest piece bringing colour to the Trongate area. The mural pays tribute to Thomas Muir, the Glasgow-born political reformer and lawyer, who is known as the 'father of Scottish democracy'.
It joins a plethora of other works by Bobby - one of Glasgow's most famous street artists - enjoyed and loved by both locals and visitors alike including murals such as 'Crazy Cat Lady' on Sauchiehall Street and 'The World's Most Economical Taxi' in Mitchell Lane.
Transport hubs
Improvements have been made to the entrance, booking office, concourse, and platforms at Anderson Station. Improvements are also being made around the bus station including fixes to roads, pavements, lighting, and street furniture. Entry points at Killermont Street are also set to be made to improve the pedestrian/user experience.
You don't need to convince us that Glasgow is the best option - not only are we the friendliest city in the world but we love a good song. Good luck, Glasgow!
READ NEXT -
Junction 1 gig-goers chasing cancelled show refunds 'met with silence' from Glasgow venue
Campaign for paid miscarriage leave builds momentum as pregnancy charities add their voice
Images show progress made on Govan-Partick footbridge currently under construction
Glasgow biker left tourist unable to walk properly after horror Loch Lomond motorbike crash
Glasgow bridge linking north communities opening delayed after two-year closures
