A PLAN to develop the 90 lanes in the city centre has won the backing of city councillors.

The new strategy will encourage owners to make full use of what is regarded as a valuable part of the city’s heritage and character.

Many city centre lanes are already successful and attractive featuring shops, restaurants and bars.

But a large number suffer anti-social behaviour, litter and are used for parking.

A report to councillors says events and pop-ups are the simplest way of making more of the potential of the lanes.

Activities such as markets, gigs, shows, festivals and outside seating for cafes and bars would help animate the lanes and make them more attractive.

The report adds: “Glasgow is home to a rich and diverse artistic community, whose contribution to the city’s culture, community life and economy is well documented.

“The spaces provided by the city centre’s lanes are a huge resource for the city’s artists – for musical performance and visual arts installations, both temporary and permanent, and as productive spaces.

“The creative community of Glasgow effectively provides a readymade tenant for the lanes - a network of people with the capacity and motivation to transform city centre lanes into active and productive spaces.”

Kenny McLean, the city council spokesman for neighbourhoods, housing and public realms, said: “The approval of the city centre lane strategy allows us to begin work with our partners that will make the most of what is an unrealised asset for the city.

“The regeneration of the area’s lanes will bring new life to the city and deliver cultural, economic and social benefits for Glasgow.”

The report says the city has a remarkable and rich heritage and one of the best ways of appreciating it is through the lanes.

It adds: “In many countries, the often overlooked and uninviting lanes are shedding their image as merely functional spaces.

“Cities across America, Australia and Canada are beginning to activate their lanes in exciting and innovative ways.

“Art installations - both permanent and temporary - are important in the lane activation process. Designs can be used to connect back to the history of an area, or simply as something that brightens an otherwise drab connection.”

The report proposes developing a pilot lane for productive studio and exhibition spaces and the development of an arts lane.