Govan Community Council reacts to Mary Barbour bridge naming rejection

Govan Community Council had proposed the renaming of the Govan-Partick Bridge after early 20th century activist Mary Barbour. However, their hopes were dashed after the proposal was recommended for rejection by Glasgow City Council.

A spokesperson for Govan Community Council said it was disappointed by the recommendation not to rename the bridge after Barbour.

They said: “Mary’s historical significance in uniting the people of Govan and Partick during the 1915 rent strikes, makes her the most appropriate figure to represent this new link between our communities.”

However, they stated that they are frustrated by the length of time the process took to unfold, with the proposal being submitted in September 2024. Consultations were then held in February 2026.

The spokesperson said: “ We believe that when a community-led petition is raised, the City Council should have the courtesy to respond in a timely manner, rather than allowing it to stall for a year and a half.

“While we understand that other Community Councils expressed different views, our position has always been that the bridge should honor our cultural heritage. Mary Barbour is a legend whose legacy belongs to both banks of the river. Renaming the bridge was about more than just putting up a sign, it was a way to encourage visitors to explore Govan's history and heritage attractions.”

It is understood that a clerical error meant that both parties believed they were awaiting further information before proceeding. A senior Glasgow City Council officer has now apologised to the community council.

A Glasgow City Council spokesman said: “The decision not to hear the 2024 petition until further engagement had taken place with other communities touched by the bridge should have been communicated at the time, but this did not happen.

“A senior officer has written to the community council and to the Chair of the relevant committee to apologise for this oversight.”

Govan Community Council thanked those involved in the campaign and said it is proud of its efforts to have the bridge renamed.

The spokesperson said: “We would like to thank Councillor Dan Hutchison for his tireless efforts in pressing for our petition to be heard. Along with our own John Foster and Esme Clark in leading the charge. While the city officials may feel there is 'no appetite' for the change, Govan Community Council remains proud to have championed a woman who fought for the rights of residents as a councillor, magistrate, and tireless advocate for women’s and children’s welfare.”