The bridge has been subject to weight restrictions for more than 20 years, and the work will be undertaken by Network Rail and Glasgow City Council.

When complete, in summer 2024, the bridge will be stronger, wider and better able to handle the size and volume of traffic that needs to travel over it.

From August, work will see the diversion of a range of utilities that cross the structure followed by demolition of the existing bridge deck and repairs to bridge abutments. Utilities will then be reconnected over the bridge ahead of it fully reopening in summer 2024.

During the 12-month period, Shields Road will close to all vehicles between St Andrew’s Drive and Scotland Street. Pedestrian access (and access for cyclists who dismount) will be maintained throughout via a temporary bridge which will be installed early in the project.

In advance of the work, there will be a public drop-in from 4-7pm on Tuesday July 4 at Pollokshields Community Centre on Kenmure Street. Members of the community will have the chance to meet the project team and find out more about the work programme.

Jeremy Spence, Network Rail’s senior programme manager for the Shields Road bridge project, said: “There is never an ideal time to close such a significant part of the road network and we understand the impact that this will have on those who use Shields Road and those living on the proposed diversion route.

“Delivery of this project has been carefully planned with our contractors and with Glasgow City Council, and the programme will be delivered with the minimum possible inconvenience for the local community.

“We thank everyone in advance for their patience during this work.”