Glasgow City Council project could accelerate proposed Clyde Metro system

Glasgow City Council is to embark on a project that will accelerate the development of the city’s proposed metro system.

Clyde Metro – which has been described as a vision for a modern and integrated public transport system in Glasgow – was first proposed three years ago by the Connectivity Commission.

The mass transit plan was confirmed by the Scottish Government as a key priority for future transport investment in the city.

Glasgow City Council and UK Infrastructure Bank (UKIB) have now joined forces in an effort to accelerate the development of the project.

Clyde Metro artist's impression. — Clyde Metro artist’s impression. Glasgow Connectivity Commission

Councillor Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council and chair of Glasgow city region cabinet, said the Clyde Metro will be a “catalyst for major economic growth and development”.

She said: “This collaboration with UKIB will help us further explore those critical funding and investment options for Clyde Metro, inform early engagement with potential partners and identify the financial structures necessary to support large scale mass transit projects and the wider net zero transition agenda.

“Clyde Metro will be transformational across the west of Scotland, a catalyst for major economic growth and development, and social and educational opportunities while also making a huge contribution to our decarbonisation agenda.

“In progressing the vital discussions around the resourcing of Clyde Metro we can then begin to talk to our citizens about routes and destinations, about timetables for delivery and about the transformational benefits it will have for them and their communities.”

The metro system, which represents a multi-billion investment over a 30-year period, could better connect more than 1.5 million people to employment, education, and health services in and around Glasgow.

John Flint, CEO of the UK Infrastructure Bank said: “Local authorities have a pivotal role to play in the journey to net zero and supporting regional and economic growth – the twin missions of the Bank.

“It is a privilege to work with Glasgow so we can better understand how the Bank can help local authorities to build the capabilities and financial expertise they need to drive the transition to a Net Zero, climate resilient, thriving economy.”