Glasgow City of Commerce sets out opposition to Woodside Viaduct removal following public consultation

A statement by the chamber of commerce called the M8 a “strategic part of Scotland’s transport network and a critical route for the city region economy”. It stated that it would not support the remove only approach at the Woodside Viaduct.

The statement continued: “If removal is to be considered, it must be accompanied by a credible, fully modelled alternative that maintains capacity, connectivity and access for businesses across the city region.

“We have identified a number of key questions that must be addressed before any preferred option can be taken forward, and we are continuing to strengthen our evidence base

“We will continue to engage constructively to support an evidence-led decision that protects the Glasgow city region’s connectivity and growth.”

The much troubled stretch of road has been undergoing repairs for the last five years and has faced delays. Transport Scotland said in February that further permanent works will need to be undertaken to ensure their future viability if the viaduct is to remain.

The national transport agency for Scotland launched a consultation detailing three different options for the future of the road. Approach one would see the viaducts repaired over an estimated time period of 1-3 years at a cost of between £125m. Approach two would see the viaducts replaced to modern design standards over the course of 3-4 years, but costs are expected to be high. The proposals estimate a cost of £200m-£500m.

It is understood that Transport Scotland is unlikely to back the remove option.

At the time of the announcement, Transport Scotland’s Director of Major Projects, Lawrence Shackman said that contractors Amey were facing “significant challenges”. Most significantly, an existing sewer, adjacent to the SPT tunnel at the western end of the viaducts, was found to be in a different location than expected.

Sign up for GlasgowWorld’s fab wee newsletter - join us here

Last month, Glasgow City Council indicated that it will back the demolition of the stretch of road in the north of Glasgow.

Councillor Christy Mearns asked at May’s full council meeting: “Following the Council’s recent response to Transport Scotland’s consultation into the future of the M8 Woodside viaduct, will the relevant City Convener commit to writing to the relevant Minister once they are appointed to urge them to pursue the ‘remove’ option, and offering the Council’s full support?”

The public consultation has now ended.