Residents of Glasgow are expressing significant frustration over the prolonged absence of pedestrian bridges over the M8 motorway, removed 18 months ago for safety assessments. The bridges at Cessnock and Kinning Park, located at Kirkwood Street and Cornwall Street, were dismantled to examine deteriorating concrete. Their ongoing absence has disrupted travel for students at Bellahouston Academy and local commuters.
Local councillor Dan Hutchison highlighted the impact of these delays, stating, “Residents are a bit fed up. People are wondering if they are not going to put them back. This is key public infrastructure.” Hutchison has taken the initiative by writing to a Scottish Government cabinet secretary, seeking clarity on when the bridges will be restored and the specific issues related to their structural integrity.
Many residents have voiced their dissatisfaction with the lack of communication from Transport Scotland and their contractor, Amey. According to Hutchison, constituents have expressed deep frustration regarding the continual delays. He noted that while there were initial expectations for the bridges to be reinstated before Christmas in 2024, Amey has indicated that work will not recommence until September 2024.
Impact on Local Community
The absence of the bridges has serious implications for mobility in the area. Hutchison explained that Bellahouston Academy relies heavily on the connectivity provided by the Kirkwood Street bridge, which is situated just south of the school. The nearby Paisley Road West Corridor offers vital bus and subway links that many students and residents depend on.
Additionally, local businesses are feeling the pinch. The detours imposed by the missing bridges have resulted in a decrease in foot traffic, which Hutchison believes adversely affects nearby hospitality establishments that benefit from patronage from the school community. He emphasized that the bridges also play a crucial role in the National Cycle Network route 7.
The Cornwall Street bridge, which directly spans Kinning Park Subway, serves as an important pedestrian route for employees working across the motorway. The ongoing delays are thus not only an inconvenience but are also impacting local economic activity.
Official Response and Future Plans
In response to the situation, a spokesperson for Amey explained that the true condition of the Kirkwood Street and Cornwall Street bridges could only be fully assessed after their removal. The company stated that additional essential testing was necessary, which has unfortunately led to delays in the reinstatement programme.
Amey’s spokesperson assured the public that the information gathered during the testing phase is crucial for ensuring the long-term durability of the bridges once they are re-installed. Currently, the project is in the design phase, reflecting the results of the concrete analysis, and on-site work is expected to resume by Summer 2026.
In recognition of the disruption caused to the local community, Amey has taken steps to improve pedestrian access by enhancing signage and clearing vegetation. The company is committed to providing updates on the project through their website, which includes a free roadwork alerts service.
The situation continues to be a source of concern for residents, students, and local businesses alike, as they await further developments regarding the restoration of these essential pathways.
