The communities of north Glasgow came together for the official opening of a brand-new £14m bridge. 

Stockingfield Bridge was officially unveiled to the public on Saturday with a spectacular light spectacle which saw the bridge's spire light up the city's sky.

The bridge, built over the Forth and Clyde Canal, opened earlier this month and marks the first time Ruchill, Maryhill and Gilshochill will be connected since 1790.

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Scottish Canals CEO Richard Millar said: “Fourteen years after we first developed the concept with the local community, we were delighted to be able to open this amazing new bridge to the public.

“We are excited to bring these communities together next month and celebrate what promises to be another historic moment in the history of Scottish Canals.”

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Glasgow Times: Lord Provost Jacqueline McLarenLord Provost Jacqueline McLaren (Image: James Chapelard)

A procession led by Glasgow-based art group Carnival Arts made its way onto the bridge from four separate meeting points.

Adding to the display, lights were fitted to standard and non-standard bikes as well as paddleboarders.

Keeping the crowd entertained throughout the evening was music, a light show, fire and aerial performers.

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Julie Murray, Director of Carnival Arts said: “We are delighted to join with Scottish Canals to help shine a light on Stockingfield Bridge.

"We already have a number of community groups who can’t wait to get involved in what’s going to be an amazing community celebration.”

The opening was welcomed by Minister for Active Travel, Partick Harvie, who called it a 'landmark' moment for north Glasgow communities as well as making it easier for people to walk, wheel and cycle. 

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Glasgow Times: Matilda, fiveMatilda, five (Image: James Chapelard)

He added: “For most, it makes it easier to get around their community for those shorter day-to-day journeys, but it’s also really significant that we now have an uninterrupted active travel route from Bowling all the way to Edinburgh for people to enjoy.

“The Scottish Government has provided over £13 million to deliver the project here at Stockingfield and I’m enthusiastic about similar transformation in communities across the country.

"That’s why the Scottish Government has now committed to investing at least £320 million, or 10% of the total transport budget on active travel by 2024-25.

"Through this record investment, we’ll help build a more active nation, where more people enjoy greater opportunities to walk, wheel and cycle for everyday journeys.”

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The work on the structure hasn't stopped yet, with nine sculptures being installed on site. 

Designs include a 121-metre mythical serpent called a Beithir in Gaelic folklore and interpretation boards exploring the area’s past and present.

The project and associated artworks have been funded by Transport Scotland through Sustrans Places for Everyone programme, the Scottish Government, Glasgow City Council’s Vacant Derelict Land Fund and SCAPE.