Glasgow’s infamous Bridge to Nowhere has won a national award after its regeneration was recognised by an environmental group.
Sustrans awarded the bridge, now called Anderston Footbridge, best community impact project as part of the charity’s Infrastructure Awards.
The awards highlight the very best projects that have taken place on the National Cycle Network since it was first developed by the charity 20 years ago.
In the early 1980s Anderson Footbridge was originally planned as the main pedestrian connection between the new housing estates on the western side of the M8 motorway to the Anderston Cross Commercial Centre.
But the size of the latter development was scaled back meaning that the bridge terminated in mid-air above vacant land gaining it notoriety.
The completion of the bridge has opened up a safe and attractive route for people travelling on foot and bike
Working with the local community, the bridge was regenerated in 2013 with funding from the Big Lottery Fund, with contributions from Transport Scotland, Strathclyde Partnership for Transport and Glasgow City Council.
Isobel Campbell, chair of Anderston Community Council, accepted the award on behalf of the local community.
She said: “We’re delighted to accept the award on behalf of the community. The community council and local people called for the bridge to be completed for a long time.
“Since it was brought down to the other side of the M8 a few years ago it’s had a big impact on the lives of people in Anderston and city centre neighbourhoods.
“The bridge has proved to be really popular. It’s used by folk from all walks of life and of all ages, but it’s made a particularly big difference to people with limited mobility. It’s given them the independence to make trips into the city centre directly and safely.”
John Lauder, director of Sustrans Scotland, said: “We’re thrilled that Anderston Footbridge is being recognised for the impact it has made on local communities.
“The completion of the bridge has opened up a safe and attractive route for people travelling on foot, bike, wheelchairs and mobility scooters across one of Scotland’s busiest roads.”
