A BIKE path described as a 'death trap' will be revamped ahead of the Commonwealth Games.

Parts of the Clydeside cycle way – which runs next to the river from the Saltmarket to the Clyde Arc – will be upgraded and drainage problems addressed as part of Glasgow City Council's legacy project for the Games.

The path is currently plagued with problems, including broken glass, cracked paving stones and potholes, which cause havoc for cyclists who use the route daily to commute to work.

Cycling charity Glasgow Bike Station welcomed the planned improvements to the route, which it says has been a concern among cyclists for some time.

Commuters describe the path as a "death trap" and "diabolical".

Work, which will focus on Custom House Quay, will see much of the area resurfaced, with improved drainage to prevent the large puddles that sometimes form.

Accessibility will also be improved, trees and shrubs will be planted and existing trees will be maintained to improve visibility.

Walls will be lowered to open the area out to improve visibility of the walkway and the river itself, and steps next to the La Pasionaria statue will be replaced.

Work by contractor Land Engineering is expected to begin next month and the city council has warned there will be some disruption.

Gary Burns, 27, from Dennistoun, cycles to his work, in customer relations at Skypark, along the path.

He said: "It is a total mess. I come this way every day so I know what to avoid, but it is a death trap.

"You have really got to watch yourself. I had to pull a big shard of glass out [of my tyre].

"It is diabolical."

Victoria Leiper, from Glasgow Bike Station, which recycles bikes and runs programmes to encourage cycling as a form of transport in the city, said she was delighted the improve-ments would be made.

She said the route was "integral" for cyclists and pedestrians but recent deterioration had caused concern.

Victoria added: "I use this route daily but am often forced to choose the road – especially when it has been raining heavily and the path is flooded.

"The surface is also a real issue and I have had a few hairy moments due to uneven paving slabs.

"Despite this, the route provides a traffic-free alternative, making cycling in the city centre a realistic option.

"I am delighted that these improvements are finally being made and am thrilled that the council is investing in cycling and walking routes.

"It makes our job promoting sustainable travel easier when you have quality cycle routes to shout about."

Councillor Archie Graham, the council's executive member for the Commonwealth Games, said: "The improvements around Custom House Quay will open up the area and breathe new life into a section of the riverside.

"We will create walking and cycling routes that are far more welcoming and which make better use of the Clyde and its waterfront.

"That will be a huge asset during the Games, but also for years to come – linking venues such as the Hydro and SECC with the city centre and on to Glasgow Green and communities in the East End."

matty.sutton@ eveningtimes.co.uk