Two parts of Glasgow separated by the Clyde are set to get a new bridge across the river as plans to transform an old disused railway viaduct progress.
There have been concerns that creating a walkway and cycle path linking Carmyle to Westburn in Cambuslang could trigger historic gang wars between youths in both areas. In 2012 three youths reportedly ended up in hospital after being stabbed on the border between the areas during a fight with the railway bridge considered a meeting point for teens.
The old train track over the river is currently closed to pedestrians. But now charity Sustrans and Amey Consulting are working to create a replacement bridge deck and spruce up the surrounding area.
There is is to be a bridge new structure that will last 130 years. Lighting and CCTV have also been under consideration during a consultation.
Shettleston councillor Laura Doherty, SNP, said: “There is such potential and benefits in redeveloping the viaduct for both communities - further connecting them with each other and providing much improved walking and cycling routes.”
Councillor Doherty added: “Concerns have been raised throughout the consultation and design stages regarding historic anti-social behaviour. Whilst I can fully appreciate these concerns, I also would have to say that during this consultation process there has been regular conversations with the communities, elected members and in dialogue with the local police teams, looking at ways these concerns can be addressed and mitigated.”
Information drop in events have been taking place this week to ask people for their input on design options, which councillor Doherty attended.
She added: “There have been largely positive responses from the Carmyle side including from the community council and local schools. It was encouraging to hear that more people had engaged with this recent round of drop-in events.”
A Sustrans spokesperson said: “We are still at the initial scoping stage of the Carmyle-Westburn Viaduct project and do not yet have a confirmed design for the bridge.”
The route is to create a link with wider active travel routes and the national cycle network.
A planning application is due to be lodged in the summer but a construction date has not been set yet.
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