Parking spaces to be removed as bus gate introduced to Queen Street and Ingram Street

Work will begin in February on measures that include widening pavements, removing on-street parking and adding Bus and Authorised Vehicle Gates on Queen Street and Ingram Street. Glasgow City Council say “wider pavements, safer crossings and new street trees, the approach will enhance pedestrian space and priority within a greener, more welcoming setting.”

The first stage will be a redesigned step‑free junction where Queen Street meets Ingram Street in an area of high footfall. From March, temporary footway extensions “made from high‑quality, durable materials” will be installed along both streets.

Previously temporary street extensions placed in city centre locations under the Spaces for People initiative in 2020 were made permanent and their condition has deteriorated over the last five years with complaints of an unsuitable surface in rainy weather.

“Widening the pavements will create a safer, more comfortable environment for pedestrians - supported by the introduction of new parklets”, the council say.

On-street parking on the city centre streets will be removed as part of the trial: “Although some general on‑street parking will be removed, the area is well served by nearby off‑street parking facilities. All existing commercial loading bays and disabled parking spaces will be retained to ensure continued access for businesses and those who rely on accessible parking” the announcement says.

Further details of the Bus Gates are included in plans for the trial: “To help create a calmer walking environment and reduce non‑essential traffic on Queen Street and Ingram Street - Bus and Authorised Vehicle Gates (operating 7am-7pm) will be trialled. These will allow only buses, taxis, pedal cycles, commercial vehicles and other authorised vehicles to make right turns between the two streets.

“These changes will support the nearby Argyle Street East Avenue project which starts construction in Spring 2026. Once this Avenue is complete, a direct west‑to‑east bus lane will be reintroduced on Argyle Street. This change will remove the need for buses to follow the current extended loop via Queen Street, Ingram Street and Glassford Street - reducing traffic on these roads and improving journey times for passengers.”

The People First Zone strategy document states: !On street parking places on the south side of Queen Street will be replaced with extended foot ways and trees, commercial loading facilities on the south kerb line will be retained and will be supplemented by loading facilitates provided on South Hanover Street.

“The existing East Bound Bus Gate on Ingram Street at the junction of Queen Street will be supplemented by the addition of a West Bound Bus Gate at the same location, this traffic control measure will permit buses, taxis, pedal cycles and commercial vehicles only during the times of 7am-7pm further reducing the through put of private vehicles whilst still maintaining loading access.”