Glasgow has seen its population balloon over the last week, with delegates from across the world descending on the city for COP26.

The increase has led to some concern about a possible increase in Covid cases, especially as Glasgow is trailing behind in numbers vaccinated.

We asked people out and about in the city centre how they felt about the number of visitors coming to Glasgow during a pandemic. 

Glasgow Times:

Mary McCabe, 71,  Dennistoun said: "The president of America turns up with his entourage to encourage other governments to cut back? They enjoy a lavish banquet in Kelvingrove while we're out here being told about how we should change.

“It's obscene, these people flying their private jets to Glasgow Airport, getting off, and having someone fly and park it in Prestwick. It should have been done online."

Glasgow Times:

Meanwhile, 24-year-old Eliot Jager from Glasgow said: "I feel that it's always necessary to talk about climate change as we must do something to (make) change, countries still have to learn about it."

Glasgow Times:

Marion Roullet, 29, France: “It’s obviously a bit worrying. I think measures have been taken. There are lateral flow tests given everywhere, so it’s quite good that we can get tested easily.

"One thing it shows is that people from outside of the Western world have less access to vaccines, so obviously it’s very hard for them to come in these conditions. They’re facing a much bigger risk, so I’m worried for them. I really hope this doesn’t have many bad consequences.”

Glasgow Times:

David Lockhart, 44, Milton of Campsie said: “I’m not entirely sure how I feel about it. I think it’s an event that has to raise awareness, I’m talking more about the Green Zones so lots of the public did need to come here.

"It’s a tough one because you don’t want there to be another lockdown, you don’t want lots of people to get Covid, you don’t want it to spread.

"At the same time, it’s a huge event that’s only going to happen in Glasgow once so I’m kind of conflicted if I’m honest with you. I think it’s a good idea but I’m probably going to be quite concerned about the Covid rates afterwards.”

Glasgow Times:

Archie, 71, and Marion, 67, Glasgow are not worried about the Covid cases.

Archie said: “We’re not particularly worried because its worse further south in England already. There’s been a lot of people gathering in Kelvingrove. I’m quite happy to see them as long as they all get home safely.”

Marion said: “I think it’s good coming to Glasgow and hopefully there will be no trouble in Glasgow.”

Glasgow Times:

Audrey Lemerciar, 34, France said: “For me, climate change is so much bigger than the pandemic and I think everything is done to make COP26 safe. I’m testing often and we’re wearing masks. For me it’s okay.”

Glasgow Times:

Lucy Nichols, 28, London said: “There’s definitely risks involved but I think it’s important that people are doing everything they can to lower that risk - so wearing masks, getting vaccinated, and testing everyday which is what I’ve been doing.

"I totally appreciate that there is definitely a heightened risk and that there has to be increased testing and increase vaccination rates over the coming months to ensure it doesn’t have a huge impact over the longer term.”

Glasgow Times:
This article was written as part of a collaboration between The Glasgow Times and City of Glasgow College in which we are seeking to find and support the journalists of the future.