Shield Road, a major route in the Southside of Glasgow, is set to undergo a closure from August 28, 2023, until August 2024. The closure will span the stretch between St Andrew’s Drive and Scotland Street, allowing for the demolition and reconstruction of the nearby railway bridge. The estimated cost for this ambitious project amounts to £12.6 million.
The new bridge aims to surpass its predecessor in terms of strength, width, and capacity to accommodate the substantial volume of traffic that utilizes it. Expectations are high that the upgraded structure will enhance both the safety and efficiency of travel in the area.
Although the closure will create disruption for road users and residents, measures have been put in place to mitigate the impact. Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the duration of the project, while cyclists can use a temporary bridge after dismounting from their bikes. Furthermore, traffic diversions will be clearly signposted from mid-August.
Laura Craig, scheme project manager at Network Rail, expressed gratitude for the valuable feedback received thus far from local residents and those directly affected by the closure. Network Rail, in collaboration with Glasgow City Council and their contractors, aims to deliver the project with minimal inconvenience to the community.
Beginning on Monday, August 28, traffic diversions will come into effect, closely monitored to ensure that the diversionary routes do not adversely affect the surrounding area. Network Rail and the council will work in tandem to observe the use of these alternative routes and address any potential issues promptly.
The construction of the new railway bridge marks a significant step forward in infrastructure development, reaffirming the commitment to enhancing transportation networks within Glasgow. The project aims to provide a reliable and modern bridge that can meet the demands of the growing population and the ever-increasing volume of traffic.