Plans are in motion that could radically reshape a section of the River Clyde in Glasgow’s city centre. With £25 million earmarked for redevelopment, the transformation of Custom House Quay and Carlton Place is officially on the table — and it’s more than just cosmetic.
Two Historic Spots, One Big Makeover
Glasgow’s relationship with the Clyde runs deep. But anyone walking the Custom House Quay or Carlton Place stretch lately knows it’s seen better days. The buildings are battered. The quay walls? Crumbling. The Spanish Civil War memorial? A solemn feature that may soon be moved to make way for construction.
Now, a planning application has landed with Glasgow City Council. If approved, it promises more than just a facelift. It’s a shot at breathing life back into one of the most storied but neglected corners of the city centre.
What the £25 Million Plan Includes
The proposal, officially submitted at the end of July, lays out an ambitious mix of restoration and reimagining. It’s not just about tidying up — the project involves engineering, architecture, history, and public access.
At its core, the scheme involves:
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Urgent repairs to the quay walls on both riverbanks
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Upgrades to public realm infrastructure
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New pedestrian and cycling access
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Enhancements around listed buildings and structures
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Potential relocation of the Spanish Civil War memorial
Two heritage-listed assets are directly involved. The Category A listed Suspension Bridge will see attention, as will the Category B listed statue of Dolores Ibárruri — known to many as “La Pasionaria.”
The idea? Turn this stretch of the river into a usable, safe and attractive public space again.
Not Everyone Is Thrilled About Moving a Memorial
Let’s pause on that last point.
The proposed relocation of the Ibárruri statue, a tribute to those from Scotland who volunteered to fight fascism in the Spanish Civil War, has stirred concern among veterans’ groups, trade unions, and leftist organisations.
It’s not just a statue. It’s a political symbol, one rooted in working-class solidarity and anti-fascist resistance. While the developers say any relocation would be respectful, some campaigners have already made it clear: don’t touch it.
One small paragraph. One very big issue.
Still, discussions are ongoing. And the final say will likely depend on consultation outcomes and planning approvals.
The Suspension Bridge and Quay Walls Need Help—Fast
Whatever happens with the memorial, one thing’s clear: the infrastructure can’t wait much longer.
The Suspension Bridge, which connects Clyde Street to the Southside near Carlton Place, is beautiful — but aging. And it’s not just the bridge. The quay walls on both sides are in urgent need of repair, according to the project’s heritage report.
Without intervention, structural failure is a risk. That’s not just bad for history—it’s dangerous.
Bringing the Clyde Back to Life
There’s a broader vision driving the project.
The Clyde has, in recent years, slipped into a bit of a no man’s land between nostalgia and neglect. It’s not as industrial as it once was, but it’s far from a vibrant public realm.
This project is one of several efforts to reverse that.
The developers say they want to create “a better-connected waterfront” and a place that residents, students, tourists, and workers can actually use. This isn’t about turning it into a theme park — it’s about making it walkable, liveable, and visually appealing.
Here’s what locals might expect if the plan is approved:
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Widened and repaved pedestrian paths
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Improved lighting and seating
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Landscaping that reflects the area’s heritage
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Space for public events and gatherings
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Greater flood resilience through upgraded embankments
Glasgow’s Track Record with Riverfront Projects
This isn’t the city’s first rodeo when it comes to riverfront redevelopment. Projects in the Finnieston and SEC area have already drawn praise for blending old and new.
But this part of the Clyde? It’s long overdue some love.
The hope is that the Carlton Place–Custom House Quay project will be the start of a domino effect. Fix one link, and maybe the whole chain becomes stronger.
Local business owners, especially those operating out of heritage buildings near Clyde Street, are watching closely. Several have backed the project in principle, saying the area desperately needs foot traffic and visibility again.
One café owner said it best: “People avoid this end of the river. That has to change.”
So What Happens Next?
Glasgow City Council now has the final say. The planning process, which includes public consultation, will unfold over the coming months.
There’s excitement, sure. But there’s also hesitation.
This stretch of river matters. And people care what happens to it — from architects and historians to trade unionists and dog walkers. The £25 million budget might cover the construction, but it’s public trust and city pride that will carry the project forward.
