PROTESTS against the proposed redevelopment of George Square are ramping up after the competing designs went on show.

A shortlist of six designs were picked as the contenders for the £15million revamp of Glasgow's main square.

However, protesters are now pushing for an alternative, seventh option, which would restore the square's lawns and flowerbeds.

The Restore George Square campaign has already gathered over 1500 signatures to their online petition and more than 2800 likes on their Facebook page.

In contrast, the council surveyed just 42 people over the planned changes as part of their 'public consultation'.

MSP Patrick Harvie and Councillor David Meikle have signed the petition and TV stars Jonathan Watson and River City's Tom Urie have tweeted support.

A spokesman for the campaign said: "In 1998 Glasgow City Council removed half of the greenspace and trees from the square.

"The designs on display are a result of the council's design brief that makes it clear that events are to take priority over greenspace.

"Glaswegians do not support the Disney-fication of George Square.

"The support for option 7, both in the petition and on Facebook, confirm this."

The Lighthouse, in Mitchell Lane, where the six plans are on display, will stay open to 8pm today and tomorrow to allow the public to air their views.

The council say the winner will be announced this Friday.

A protest has been called for noon on Saturday February 2 to halt the George Square reconstruction.

fiona.mckay@ eveningtimes.co.uk