Squiggly suits us fine

By Talking Heads on May 21, 09 12:14 PM in

The Squiggly Bridge - the latest crossing over the River Clyde - was formally opened to the public a week ago.

This unique S-shaped crossing was designed to link Tradeston on the south side of the river with the International Financial Services District and the city centre. It has already proved a big hit with pedestrians and cyclists thanks to its striking design and improved links. But some have criticised the construction as a waste of cash when pedestrians could easily use the nearby George V bridge to cross the Clyde. The Glaswegian took to the streets to ask visitors and residents what they thought of the newest addition to the Clyde.

Tourist John Spicer, 28, from Edinburgh, was visiting Glasgow for a holiday and found the bridge was ideal for getting him across the Clyde to his southside hotel. He said: "It's good for access to the south side. "It's good if you're staying at the hotels there too. You don't need to go all the way over to the next bridge to get across."

But Sharon Hutcheon, a nursery worker, from the south side, branded the bridge a waste of money. She said: "I just don't see the point of it. You can easily go to the other bridge. It's just a waste of money that could have been spent elsewhere."

Simone Cassie, from Langside, came to try the bridge with baby Zack because her dad had worked on it. The 34-year-old engineer was immediately impressed. She said:"It makes it easier to get over the Clyde and it's nice to see a new bridge in Glasgow."

David Burt, 25, was immediately won over by the design. The East Kilbride resident said: "I do like it because it is a bit different."

Keen walker Bill Taylor, 71, from Cumbernauld, was very impressed with the surface. The retired customer relations worker said: "The council have certainly done a good job at the end of the bridge too. "

John McGlinchey, a retired tailor, grew up in the Gorbals and is amazed by the transformation of the riverside. The 65-year-old, who now lives in Ralston, Paisley, said: "It's absolutely beautiful. Glasgow is a great city and this adds to it."