GLASGOW is bidding to turn the city into a "mini Holland" with plans for a multi-million pound cycle scheme.

The council has submitted two proposals to Sustrans Scotland's grants programme aimed at Scots local authorities.

The projects - in Woodside and Govanhill - have both been successful in the first stage of the bidding process.

Bosses will find out next week if any of the schemes are shortlisted to enter stage three.

The aim of the project is to deliver an "exemplar" scheme which will help achieve Cycling Actions Plans vision of having 10% of everyday trips being taken by bike by 2020.

According to a council report seen by the Evening Times, the Woodside scheme would cost around £12million.

The "mini Holland" project would provide segregated cycle lanes that integrate Woodlands with the programmed improvements to Sauchiehall Street.

The concept is inspired by the Dutch method of development for suburbs, smaller towns and villages.

St George’s Cross would benefit from a major redesign in the around the subway station providing improved pedestrian and cycle crossing facilities.

Secure cycle parking at the station would also be provided.

Councillor Martin McElroy, Glasgow City Council cycling spokesman, said: "The plans are a credit to the officers who have led us through the bid process.

"Unfortunately in Glasgow the car is still king. It is going to take a lot of investment in infrastructure to change that.

"Woodside has become more and more diverse - there are lots of students and lots of young families compared to what there was 10 years ago.

"If this is successful it will get a lot more people on their bikes."

Mr McElroy said the city was looking to Europe for inspiration.

He said: "I am sure when you think of Holland the first thing you think of is cycling. They have been so successful, along with other countries in Europe. So that's what we're looking to.

"The reason cycling is part of their culture is because of the infrastructure. For me it's a bit of both - getting the infrastructure in place and changing attitudes."

The South Side project would focus on Victoria Road and is estimated to cost £5million. The council said it is an "ideal location to encourage sustainable and active travel" due to it being close to the City Centre.

The council said it hoped the project would "deliver not only a core route, but major improvements leading to greater sense of place and an improved quality of life".

The route would link healthcare, academic, social, leisure and cultural venues.

Mr McElroy said: "The Victoria Road plans look very good as well.

"One of the best ways to increase cycling is to have segregated lanes like this plan.

"That improves the confidence of cyclists and can also help change the attitude of road users."

If the bid is not successful Mr McElroy said the council would still be investing in infrastructure.