When first conceived in the eighteenth century, George Square was regarded as Glasgow’s ‘Grande Place’. It began as a garden with trees, lawns and fences. Over time the Square was inhabited by statues celebrating the great men of the time. However, like most post-industrial cities of the late twentieth century, the pressures applied to the use of public spaces are significant, and George Square has been compromised to such an extent, that its loss of status and dignity is all too apparent. The Square has had many piecemeal adjustments over the last century and can no longer claim to be ‘grand’ – it requires a wholesale re-examination of its image and functions in order that it can be regarded as a ‘place’ fit for the 21st Century, and to once again exemplify Glasgow’s reputation as an international city. It is therefore time to regain George Square’s status – and what better opportunity, than for the city’s hosting of the Commonwealth Games in 2014, when the Square will be viewed by a world audience, not only as Glasgow’s central city square, but as Scotland’s premier urban space. Key challenges require to be met in a short timescale. In summary the overall vision for the project is that: — the re-design must reinforce the role of George Square as Glasgow’s primary urban space by, — celebrating the creativity of the city and its people, — creating a day and night environment in which the citizens of Glasgow and visitors alike are able to socialise freely, — providing a context in which a range of organised activities, large and small can occur during all seasons, — creating an urban space of outstanding design quality, — creating a world class tourist destination. It is crucial that George Square is considered in the wider urban context. Consideration of the movement of pedestrians, cycles and vehicles on its periphery [and in particular in relation to Queen Street Station and Buchanan Street] will be central to its success as an urban ‘place’. Whilst it might not be possible to achieve all aspects of the wider urban re-design for 2014, it would be the intention to deliver a ‘fully functional’ square in time for the Games, with the remainder of any additional works outwith the boundary of the Square [traffic management, road adjustments, environmental infrastructure etc] being completed as part of a second phase and in concert with the emerging City Centre Traffic Management Plan proposals.

Type of procedure Restricted

Envisaged minimum number 5

Award criteria The most economically advantageous tender in terms of the criteria stated in the specifications, in the invitation to tender or to negotiate or in the descriptive document

Time limit for receipt of tenders or requests to participate 20.9.2012 – 12:00