Today we wanted to talk about Bridges here in Glasgow - and not Kevin Bridges, though he is a Glaswegian darling - we want to explore the history of our great bridges
Bridges are important anywhere, but especially here in Glasgow. They link communities, open up new opportunities for commerce, transport and culture, and for many of us, they play an integral role in our everyday lives.
Now with the finishing touches being put on the Govan-Partick Bridge, we wanted to look at the history of all the major bridges in Glasgow - and how they came to be in the city.
Take a look below as we explore the history of Glasgow bridges in 15 photographs.
5. City Union Bridge (1899)
While St Enoch Station was open, this was one of the main routes for trains in and out of the city. Since the closure of St Enoch station and hotel back in 1966, the bridge has only been used for empty stock movements. It's believed that if Glasgow Central and Glasgow Queen Street Station ever link up, then the City Union Bridge will play a key role once again. | Wikipedia
6. Glasgow Bridge (1899)
Originally constructed in 1772, it was the first bridge in Glasgow to be lit by electricity. Between 1895 and 1899 it was replaced with the current wider bridge which incorporated Telford's stonework and expanded the arches to accommodate larger ships. | Wikidata
7. Caledonian Railway Bridge (1905)
The first incarnation of the Caledonian Railway Bridge was first constructed in 1878, and the bridge as we know it was built around 1905 to coincide with the expansion of Glasgow Central Station. At the time of its opening, it was believed to be the widest railway bridge in existence. | Glasgow City Archive
8. King George V Bridge (1928)
This bridge in the city centre linking Oswald Street to Tradeston is lot younger than it may seem. It finished construction in 1928, but was commissioned in 1914, seeing heavy delays due to the First World War. | Contributed