A tender for a redesign of George Square has been opened in the next stage of redeveloping city centre streets.

The council is asking for proposals for a new look George Square for the 21st century.

The overall plan will see the Avenues project extended to St Vincent Street.

A new pedestrian link from Queen Street Station through George Square and down Hanover Street and Miller Street through Argyle Street to reach the River Clyde is also to be created.

The plan is expected to see a car free square with the west and east sides currently closed to all traffic.

It will be able to host events linked to major sporting occasions in the city and others likwe COP 26 next year.

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The north and south streets are also expected to be car free with space for public transport still available.

A shortlist of design teams will be drawn up in November and the winning team chosen in March next year.

Work is expected to start by the Summer of 2023.

The overall area covered includes George Square, George Street, Hanover Street, John Street, Miller Street, Dundas Street and Dundas Lane.

The work will be funded through the Glasgow City Region Deal

Susan Aitken, Leader of Glasgow City Council, said: “The transformation of George Square is already underway and this project will help to redefine it as Glasgow’s principal public space and gathering place. 

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“It will make active travel and public transport more appealing, improve air quality and the local environment, and make this city neighbourhood not only more resilient and sustainable, but a more attractive place in which to live, work and visit. 

Michael Matheson Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity, said: “This is another significant milestone for Glasgow as it prepares to host a number of major events in the years ahead, and it’s encouraging that the views of local people will help shape how this central space will look.