A NEW exhibition shows how the north of Glasgow city centre could look after a major upgrade.

It focuses on what is known as the North Quadrant which links Port Dundas, Renfrew Street and Speirs Locks.

Recently a report highlighted the area's growing economic and social importance.

The new exhibition called North Quarter - What will the future be? shows visions for the area which is set for transformation over the next 20 years.

They have been developed by students from the Urban Design Unit at Strathclyde University working with the city council, the community and other stakeholders.

The exhibition in Dundasvale community hall runs from Thursday until Sunday and will allow visitors to meet students and council officers.

The hope is that local people will comment on the work, exchange ideas and influence its further development.

Liz Cameron, Glasgow City Council's executive member for jobs and the economy, said: "The development of the North Quarter is a key part of our plans for the city centre. The area has made tremendous strides in recent years, particularly as a base for cultural organisations and we are now moving towards a masterplan.

"The exhibition at Dundasvale community hall offers everyone with a stake in the North Quarter the chance to influence plans."

The North Quarter area is home to 10 cultural and entertainment organisations including the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Glasgow School of Art, the Theatre Royal and the Royal Concert Hall.

A recent city council report said the North Quarter is developing a distinctive cultural vibrancy which is transforming the area and securing its economic prosperity.

It added: "Port Dundas is developing a strong business core as well as being a destination for outdoor sports, including Paddlesports Glasgow, and will soon be the home of West Brewery which will represent a destination in itself."

The first phase of the upgrade will focus on the area to the south of the motorway and the north of the city centre.

It will involve recruiting a project manager and drawing up a plan to focus on smaller scale issues such as cleansing, lighting, tidying up vacant sites, removing redundant street structures and dealing with antisocial behaviour.

vivienne.nicoll@ eveningtimes.co.uk