TRAVEL restrictions for Glasgow climate change conference COP26 take effect from this weekend.

The conference takes place from October 31 to November 12, however, road and path closures start from today (23 October). Disruption from protests is also expected.

Next weekend (30/31 October}, Monday 1 November, Tuesday 2 November and Saturday 6 November will all be particularly busy and commuters should expect severe delays.

Nicola Blaney, head of events resilience at Transport Scotland, said: “The scale of COP26 is unprecedented in terms of the impact it will have on our transport networks.

“This is due to a combination of road closures around the SEC, including the Clydeside Expressway which will be closed from Saturday 23 October to Sunday 14 November, and the additional demand on the network from those attending the conference.

“We’d urge everyone to stay informed and plan ahead to make the right journeys at the right times so we can keep Glasgow and the Central Belt moving as the region takes to the world stage for this once-in-a-lifetime event.”

Information is available on the Get Ready Glasgow website www.getreadyglasgow.com.

It provides details on alternative routes, local road closure dates and where local access will be maintained. It also includes maps highlighting where and when impacts are most likely.

Transport minister, Graeme Dey, said: “The most up-to-date information, including a detailed travel plan, maps, road closures and dates for community and business engagement sessions is readily available.

“I would again urge commuters, businesses and the public to take some time to familiarise themselves with the plans so that we can all work together to help deliver a successful event.”