On 1st June 2011 an opening ceremony took place to celebrate the completion of the first stage of public realm Improvements at Govan Cross. The works were carried out as part of Central Govan Action Plan alongside similar improvement work to the forecourts of both the shopping centre and Govan Underground Station.
The improvements are designed to boost Govan town centre’s commercial and social success and include new paving, lighting, seating and planting, all in top quality materials to reflect the historical significance of Govan and its potential to once again play an important role in the life of the City. Artist Kate Robinson also worked with local residents to create a series of engraved paving stones, an important feature of the redeveloped area.
It is hoped that the public realm improvements will help to create a vibrant, attractive civic space and entrance way to the heart of Govan. As well as providing space for gatherings and events, Govan Cross has the potential to be a major public transport node for the new South Glasgow Hospital, and a key pedestrian river crossing point connecting Govan to Glasgow Harbour, the new Riverside Museum and the River Clyde itself.
The Council are currently completing a second phase of public realm improvement work to upgrade Water Row and the Riverside Walkway.
Key Facts
Status: Phase 1 complete
Cost: £1.6 million
Timescale: Completed in 2011
Funders: Glasgow City Council (CGAP and Govan Cross THI), Scottish Government, Heritage Lottery.
Project Team: Glasgow City Council Land & Environment Services, Maclay Civil Engineering Ltd.