PLANS for a multi-million extension of Glasgow's Subway system into the East End are firmly on track.

SPT chairman Alistair Watson today revealed: "We will deliver the East End extension for 2014. I am being unequivocal about that."

The historic decision to give the 2014 Commonwealth Games to Glasgow on Friday has concentrated efforts to transform Glasgow's transport infrastructure.

A major revamp of the 111-year-old subway system is planned and the first phase will be an extension linking the SECC to the Commonwealth Games village opposite Celtic Park and the nearby new National Indoor Arena.

It is thought the SECC line will connect with Argyle Street low level before going further east to Bridgeton and Parkhead.

The extension is among a number of transport plans expected to become priorities for the city now.

Other pressing projects include the completion of the M74, the Glasgow Airport rail link and a facelift of the existing subway - with improved stations, escalators, lighting and a new ticket system.

Previously SPT had said work on the Clockwork Orange extension could start as early as 2010.

Councillor Watson said he now had no hesitation in declaring the east-west subway extension as "on track."

He could not comment on whether this date would be brought forward in light of the Games decision, but he said it would become a reality, with the expected Government financial backing.

The cost extension is not clear, at this stage.

Councillor Watson added: "I've always said the Commonwealth Games will give us a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a transport legacy for the people of Glasgow.

"We will deliver the East End extension for 2014. Given the level of support that we anticipate from the (Scottish) Government we are now on track for the project.

"This has never been political; it's about Glasgow. At the SPT we now have a unique opportunity to put in place transport infrastructure that Glasgow has not seen in 50 or 60 years.

"The East End in particular has been deprived of any development for such a long time.

"And all that is going to change in less than 10 years."

He added: "SPT has big ideas. We want to match the ambition shown by those who have brought the Games to Glasgow."

The last major renovation of the subway was during 1977 when it closed for two years.