New Renfrew Bridge to create jobs boost along Clyde
The two-lane road trestle, which spans 184 metres across the Clyde, will open to the general public on Friday at midday.
The bridge was funded as part of the one-billion-pound Glasgow City Region Deal, a joint project comprising the UK Government, Scottish Government, and eight local authorities.
The new bridge spans 184m across the Clyde. (Image: Josh Pizzuto-Pomaco)
Kirsty McNeill MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Scotland, told The Herald: 'The bridge could potentially create 1400 new jobs, so we are really excited about that.
'We've backed that with £39m of investment, because we are so committed to seeing people have more money in their pocket.
'It's going to connect two communities', McNeil said, adding: 'It will improve connections for leisure and transportation between these iconic communities on the banks of the Clyde.
'The UK Government is committed to investing in infrastructure.'
Using a cable system similar to the Queensferry Crossing, the bridge will facilitate travel for vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians and improve transport links to the nearby Advanced Manufacturing Innovation District (AMIDS).
Architect Tony Kettle, known for his design of the Falkirk Wheel, crafted the concepts for the bridge.
Kettle told The Herald: 'This is more than a bridge. It's a landmark that should become a tourist attraction for the area.
'It's a fantastic connection between the two banks, and will make the area thrive."
Tony Kettle designed the bridge. (Image: Josh Pizzuto-Pomaco) The double-leafed bridge will also be able to open for passing ships when required.
Kettle noted: 'We were able to pick up on the natural geometry of the Clyde and design the bridge around that.
'When the bridge was being delivered and floated into place, we matched the angles of the old cranes on the dockside.
'It's about picking up on the history and the heritage of the area, and creating something new and exciting for today.'
The hundreds in attendance cheered as the two leaves of the bridge met in the middle of the Clyde, connecting the two sides.
Renfrew school children walked across the bridge to the sound of pipes, meeting their counterparts from Clydebank at the trestle's nexus.
Hundreds of people walked on the bridge. (Image: Josh Pizzuto-Pomaco) Scottish Government Minister for Employment and Investment Tom Arthur added:
'We've supported the construction of the bridge through the wider Glasgow City Region Deal, so it's great to see it finally open.
'This bridge is of huge significance and will offer real benefits to people here in Renfrew and on the other side of the Clyde.
'It will really help support the community in their everyday lives, whether it's visiting friends or family, going to work, or enjoying hospitality.
'That is a great thing for the area's economy.'
Renfrewshire Council leader Iain Nicolson quipped: 'The weather certainly enhances the sense of relief that the project is finally coming to completion.
"I'm so pleased to see so many people here from Renfrew. It's right that they celebrate the bridge."
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