Experts from Glasgow are heading to Beijing in September to learn from China about massive infrastructure developments that could boost Glasgow’s bid for the 2014 Commonwealth Games.
Strathclyde Partnership for Transport’s (SPT) senior officials will then produce a report on potential initiatives that could be introduced in Glasgow.
Ron Culley, SPT chief executive, said China had made “great inroads” in the development of its subway system and in terms of fast, light rail networks.
He said, “their buses use green fuel and, at the moment, they are setting the benchmark for everyone else when it comes to transport. We can definitely learn from them as their transport infrastructure is years in advance of pretty much everywhere else”.
Alistair Watson, SPT’s chairman said, “a major sporting event, such as the Olympic or Commonwealth Games, is a huge challenge for transport and China has put in place some pioneering measures to cope with the extra demand. Glasgow has a once-in-a lifetime opportunity with the Commonwealth Games and we are ensuring that, should our city get the nod, we will be up to the task”.
