THIS is the first glimpse of how Argyle Street could look as part of a project to create 16 tree lined avenues in the city centre.

Civic Engineers, which has a base in the city, has won the £1.8million contract to help deliver the scheme.

It is hoped the transformation of a number of streets into avenues aims will dramatically improve the quality of the city centre putting people at its heart.

The project will introduce trees, create attractive streetscapes, protect space for cyclists and pedestrians, improve routes for public transport and improve the image of the city for everyone who lives, works or visits it.

Civic Engineers will lead a multi-disciplinary design team which will take the project from concept, through public consultation to the final design stage.

The company, which also has studios in Manchester, Leeds and London, employs over 80 people and has extensive experience of delivering award winning public realm projects.

It will start work on the design to transform Argyle Street in November and it is hoped it will be complete by 2020.

The city council has already produced designs for Sauchiehall Street which will be the first to undergo work.

Stephen O'Malley, founding director of Civic Engineers, said: "The avenues project is an ambitious, forward-thinking initiative which will transform the streetscapes of the city centre and how those who live, work and visit Glasgow experience them.

"Our considerable experience means we have the experience to deliver public realm improvements that bring real economic, social and environmental benefits and ultimately help to deliver a healthier city centre."

Kenny McLean, the city council spokesman for neighbourhoods, housing and public realm, said the project would be a key element in the development of the city centre.

He added: "The avenues will become an attractive feature for everyone who uses the area whether for work, study, shopping, eating and dining, clubbing and theatre-going or as a resident.

"We look forward to working with partner organisations to deliver this project which will change the face of the city centre for the better."