Need for management of transport in Glasgow

Increased car numbers

The number of cars owned in Glasgow has increased by 50% since 1991 to 160,000. More road journeys are made by car as they are more convenient than public transport.

Commuters

Approximately 25% of people who work in Glasgow don’t live in the city. Lots of people live in suburban areas e.g. Bearsden or in commuter towns such as Greenock. Commuters travelling in create congestion during the morning and evening rush hour.

Location/few bridging points

Glasgow has a limited number of bridging points across the river clyde. Vehicles are funnelled into a number of bottlenecks which increases congestion.

Street layout

The grid-iron street pattern of Glasgows CBD were built before the age of cars. The streets are narrow and this is often made worse by cars parking at the side of the road.

Function of CBD

The tourism industry is prominent so large coach tours and sightseeing buses contribute to traffic problems. There is an increased use of commercial vehicles in the city centre such as delivery lorries/vans and these heavy vehicles can cause damage to roads.

Poor public transport

Public transport may be seen as costly, inefficient or lacking meaning now that more cars are on the road.