Road to Hampden for fans ‘will be improved’ to save stadium
PLANS to improve transport to and from Hampden as the national stadium are already under way, according to the council leader.
Transport links to Mount Florida have been a common complaint of fans travelling for Scotland matches and cup finals.
Tens of thousands of fans pour into Glasgow for Scotland matches and then have to get from the city centre to the stadium.
The main route is via train from Glasgow Central to Mount Florida, or bus along Aikenhead Road or Cathcart Road.
Many choose to walk or take taxis as close to the ground as they can get.
Fans have complained the stadium is not accessible with long queues for trains and traffic jams on surrounding roads.
With the SFA due to make a decision this month on whether to renew the lease on Hampden or switch matches to Murrayfield, the council said the transport issues can and are being addressed.
Susan Aitken, leader of Glasgow City Council, said in a letter to the SFA President, Hampden is well served by transport but ongoing work will make further improvements that fans should see a noticeable difference.
She said: “Most notable is the South City Way, which is building safer, more comfortable, faster and more coherent cycle and walking routes from Queen’s Park to the Merchant City.
“Within two years, the experience for walkers, cyclists and public transport users will be unrecognisable.
“Coupled with signage and promotion, this will go a considerable way towards delivering the Hampden Stride and improving the experience of walking to and from the stadium.”
However, she recognised there was problems with tens of thousands from across Scotland attending events at the stadium.
Ms Aitken added: “Hampden is well served by the suburban rail network and by bus routes, with accessibility improved by the M74 extension.
“However we are aware that there are often capacity issues at major events.
“The Council is participating with Hampden Park and transport stakeholders on a transport working group to put in place an Event Transport Plan, which will make travelling by public transport to international games, domestic cup matches and concerts at Hampden markedly better.”
Hampden, she said, would be promoted as a destination with train and bus operators.
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The Scottish Rugby Union is due to make its pitch to the SFA to snatch matches away to the Edinburgh stadium this week.
Ms Aitken, however said the council was backing retaining Hampden.
She said: “Hampden is a stadium of international importance and a centrepiece of Glasgow.
“It is to be championed and cherished and should retain its position as the home of Scottish Football for generations to come.”