MORE than 100 protesters warned Glasgow could be losing a much loved public space if the Royal Concert Hall steps are demolished.
They took part in a Save Our Steps protest today voicing concern at proposals to replace the steps with an atrium as part of a £400 million Buchanan Galleries extension.
Around 12,000 people have signed an online petition against the plans, which the council is expected to debate again at the end of the month.
One campaigner, 25-year-old, Ben Bookless said: "The main point we're trying to make today is this is great space.
"It's a community space where people love to meet, have some lunch and enjoy the buskers.
"There aren't many places like this to meet in the centre of Glasgow so it's important we don't lose this one.
"It's just another example of Glasgow City Council valuing commercialism.
"If people make Glasgow, why are we valuing commercialism over our own citizens?"
The plans are expected to improve access to the Royal Concert Hall for disabled people, as currently there is only one disabled entrance to the building located on Killermont Street.
However, campaigners say the entryway should be made more accessible without demolishing the steps.
Marion Nisbet, a Glasgow Care Crisis worker, said: "As a disabled woman, I often use the steps when I'm out shopping if I need to relax for a moment.
"We need this space that we can meet at for free, without having to pay for a cup of tea to sit in a cafe.
"There are 101 ways to improve disabled access to the Concert Hall without having to remove the steps.
"How dare they use disabled people as an excuse to take away a public place?"
Patrick Harvie, Green MSP for Glasgow, agrees that more should be done to make the Concert Hall accessible for disabled people.
He said: The area does need some sprucing up and the disabled access needs improved but to take away such a creative and public space would be a real shame."
Stuart Patrick, chief executive of Glasgow Chamber of Commerce said removing the steps will improve access to the Concert Hall.
Mr Patrick said: "We support the thinking behind the design, which is aimed at creating a building that connects the Royal Concert Hall and Buchanan Galleries - while being fully accessible to disabled visitors and wheelchair users."
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