VISITORS to Pollok Country Park are expected to triple when the Burrell Collection reopens at the end of next year.

Meanwhile members of the Transforming Pollok Country Park group hope Glasgow City Council will provide funding allowing them to continue plans to convert the estate into a world-class civic destination.

If successful, measures will be taken to ensure drivers park at the edge of the grounds making it safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

An electric shuttle service from Pollokshaws West train station may also be created to help those who are less able to walk get to the centre of the park.

Plans were discussed by the Pollokshields area partnership yesterday morning.

Isobel Shire, special projects officer at Glasgow Life, said: “We are going to ask the council for funding and submit a pre-planning application.

“When the Burrell Collection reopens we expect triple the amount of visitors to the park.

“Our aim is to turn it back into a country estate and keep vehicles to the edge of the grounds making the heart of it solely for pedestrians, walkers and cyclists.

“We are looking at how we can improve access the Pollokshaws West train station and we want to create an electric shuttle service from the station to the car park.”

Concerns were raised that more should be done to protect pedestrians and cyclists from moving vehicles within Pollok Country Park.

Kevin Kane, of Strathbungo Society, said: “This plan seems to relate more to the access in and around the park.

“This is just one issue and I am surprised there isn’t a management maintenance programme.

“I am concerned about traffic but the idea about keeping cars to the edge is a good idea.”

Ms Shire responded: “This is about improving the park overall. We welcome your feedback and support.”