Glasgow's rapid rate of population growth and urbanisation provide a robust base from which to build back better.
At one point, Glasgow was one of the fastest shrinking cities in the world. In recent years, Glasgow’s population has been on a strong upward curve and the share of people living in and around the city centre has increased, driven by the demands of a younger workforce: the latest forecasts estimated that over the next 15 years, the metropolitan population will grow nearly as fast as New York and Los Angeles. Glasgow has become a genuine metropolis and borrows scale from its wider (Central Belt) region, home to more than 3.5 million people and one of the 20 largest urban regions in Europe. Glasgow is well placed to serve the growing demand for city centre living and to provide the ingredients for walkability and vibrancy that are becoming increasingly sought after. As the economy starts to grow again, Glasgow’s urban scale and momentum brings opportunities to serve Scotland and host global activities and functions.
“Up to 2035, Glasgow's metropolitan population will grow at a faster rate than in Lisbon, Helsinki and Amsterdam, and nearly as fast as New York and Los Angeles.”
"The 'Central Belt Region' (Glasgow and Edinburgh metropolitan areas combined) is home to 3.5 million people, making it one of the 20 largest urban regions in Europe."
"Over the next 15 years, Glasgow’s population will grow by 160,000 residents, nearly double the annual rate of population growth recorded over the previous 15 years."
"Glasgow has the 4th highest number of houses among UK cities and the number of houses grew faster in relative terms than in Manchester and Birmingham between 2013 and 2020."
"Glasgow City Council recently approved a plan to bring nearly £470m of investment into new affordable homes and existing housing under the Strategic Housing Investment Plan."