Iconic Glasgow- The Bridgeton Umbrella

The stunning cast iron structure affectionately known as the ‘Umbrella’ at Bridgeton Cross is a famous landmark and has been a meeting place for generations of ‘Brigtonians’. It’s symbolism and setting have deteriorated over time as the community has wrestled with the difficult legacy of industrial decline. However, plans are afoot to breath new life into the area with an investment of £1.4m from Clyde Gateway, to transform Bridgeton Cross into a pedestrian-friendly, attractive and functional urban space.

A legacy of Scottish Craftsmanship
The category A-listed Umbrella stands at the heart of the community in Bridgeton and since its erection in 1875 has served as a shelter at the centre of Bridgeton Cross; the major junction between a series of historically significant routes into Glasgow, and the East End industries that once dominated this part of the city.
The Umbrella, designed and manufactured in Glasgow by George Smith & Co of the Sun Foundry in Kennedy Street, Townhead, is widely recognised by historians as a magnificent example of a 19th century decorative cast iron structure. Of classical design, the 50 foot open shelter is supported on cast-iron columns, elaborately ornamented and topped with a square clock tower displaying the City Arms and a weathervane.
Such structures are now increasingly rare but this survives as an example of the quality of craftsmanship and manufacturing that Scotland was once renowned for across the world. Over the years it has been tended by its owners Glasgow City Council, who in recent years have installed new lighting to highlight its intricate iron detailing and have kept its clock ticking.

Buck Kelly’s Umbrella
While officially and originally named Bridgeton Cross Pavilion and Clock Tower, this iconic structure has become more commonly known and referred to as the Bridgeton Umbrella. Local legend has it that resident tailor John “Buck” Kelly regularly sheltered from the rain under the structure, and a Glasgow Eastern Standard reader thus coined the local phrase: “Meet me at ‘Buck’ Kelly’s Umbrella”!

Regeneration for the Commonwealth Games and beyond.
Clyde Gaterway, overseeing the current regeneration of the area, were established in 2007 as a partnership between Glasgow City Council, South Lanarkshire Council, Scottish Enterprise and the Scottish Government and charged with leading the way on achieving social, economic and physical change in a 2,000 acre area centered on the River Clyde. They will be working very closely alongside the 2014 Commonwealth Games organisation to ensure there is a real and lasting legacy for the area, including new sports facilities and housing for local people.

The Future...
Detailed plans for the Umbrella have been commissioned to investigate the historical significance of the structure and assess the works required to restore it to its original glory, as the centerpiece of Bridgeton Cross.
The improvements are expected to start on site in Autumn 2009 and be completed in Spring 2010.

Wider proposals for the area will see changes to the quality of the streetscape at the Cross, with the introduction of new lighting, street furniture, public art and traffic management proposals. A series of arts and heritage projects will be undertaken by pupils in local primary schools and youth groups, with their work displayed throughout the community.

135 years after its construction, the Bridgeton Umbrella stands as a reminder of the proud past of the community. But more importantly it provides a focus for the long-overdue physical, social and economic transformation of the area – a transformation that is beginning now and which will continue for many more years.

The Bridgeton Umbrella at Bridgeton Cross, Glasgow. 

image: c. Glasgow City Council