Glasgow’s George Square to go behind hoardings as revamp begins

The long-awaited renovation of one of Glasgow’s best-known public spaces has begun.

George Square is set for an 18-month revamp that has been years in the planning.

The first stage of the project will cover the perimeter of George Square with hoardings to allow work to start inside.

Panels on the hoardings will be decorated to showcase the city’s past and present as well as displaying the future vision for Glasgow.

The finished project will include a water feature, a raised lawn, sheltered seating and feature lighting. There will also be informal play areas for children.

The landmark’s transformation will continue in May with the removal of the Square’s bronze statues for restoration and storage.

The location will then be handed over to contractors who will begin the main restoration works from the start of June.

However, it will leave the city in a state of disarray.

Current work to improve the condition of nearby Sauchiehall Street has been taking longer than planned.

Councillor Angus Millar, Convener for City Centre Recovery at Glasgow City Council, said the completed project would deliver a civic space Glaswegians and Scotland could be proud of.

He said: “George Square’s restoration is a huge and historic project and so much work has already gone into its planning and design.  

“Once complete next year, Glasgow will have a modern square with more greenery, improved lighting and drainage infrastructure and a high-quality stone finish to replace the current tarmac.

“This will be a momentous month for the city.”

The new-look George Square will be ready by autumn 2027, meaning its use will be ruled out for the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

Funding is being provided through the City Deal programme, a £1bn infrastructure scheme funded by both the UK and Scottish governments.