Wednesday June 24th 2026
Glasgow City Chambers
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Sarah Hilley
Old phone boxes on Glasgow streets should be removed along with unauthorised advertising banners and other street clutter, according to a councillor.
Councillor Ken Andrew is bringing a motion to a council meeting describing “redundant and poorly maintained phone boxes, kiosks and ATMs” as a “blight on Glasgow’s streets.”
The motion points out advertising trailers and mobile billboards on roads and footpaths “contribute to visual clutter, obstruct pedestrian movement, and may pose risks to road safety.”
The SNP councillor wants the council to have discussions with telecommunications firms and other owners to ensure they carry out repairs, upgrade or get rid of obsolete or vandalised structures.
His motion seconded by councillor Wullie Graham is also seeking stronger national powers to deal with the problem of redundant structures, which make areas look messy.
Councillor Andrew said: “If we are serious about creating streets that are attractive, inclusive and safe, then we must also address the growing clutter that increasingly dominates too many of our pavements and roadsides.
“Outdoor advertising infrastructure, redundant phone boxes and mobile billboard trailers all have a cumulative impact on the experience of our city.”
He added: “This is about stewardship of public space. Every unnecessary obstruction removed improves accessibility and place quality, and every reduction in distraction contributes to safer roads. This motion strikes a balanced approach—supporting digital connectivity where there is clear public benefit, while taking firm action where infrastructure has become obsolete or detrimental to our environment.”
The motion sets out proposals for a phased decluttering programme, starting with obsolete phone boxes and kiosks. It said that advertising structures including trailers without permission should be the subject of enforcement action to ensure removal.
Councillor Graham added: “Research suggests that external distractions, including roadside advertising, may contribute to up to 10 per cent of road accidents. By reducing clutter, managing advertising responsibly and prioritising people, we can build on our progress and create streets that are safer, fairer and fit for the future.”
Councillors will decide whether to approve the motion at Thursday’s full council meeting in the chambers at George Square.
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