The Scottish Roadscast
85 episodes — Page 2 of 2
S3 Ep 8Potholes and Road Defects
In this edition of the Glasgow Motorway Archive podcast we are talking potholes and carriageway defects! Join us as we discuss how they form, how they are repaired and what we can do to prevent them! We also answer your pothole related questions. With Stuart Baird and John Hassall.
S3 Ep 7Erskine Bridge - Celebrating 50 Years!
In this special edition of the Glasgow Motorway Archive podcast we celebrate 50 years of the Erskine Bridge. Join us as we consider the history, planning, design and construction of the project. We also consider developments in the last half century and consider why Erskine has become one of Scotland's most iconic structures. With Stuart Baird and John Hassall. Music Credit: “Drawing Mazes” Podington Bear From the Free Music Archive CC BY-NC 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/
S3 Ep 6The A1 - Part 2 - Dunbar to Berwick and the Future
Part 2 of a two part series discussing the A1, one of Scotland's least discussed trunk roads. Stuart and John are joined by Duncan Macknight, a road history researcher and GMA member as they take a deep dive into Scotland's east coast link to the north of England. In part 2 we consider the section of the route from Dunbar to Berwick before discussing potential future developments. Prepare to be blown away with many new facts, figures and previously untold tales! With Stuart Baird, John Hassall and Duncan Macknight Released June 2021.
S3 Ep 5The A1 - Part 1 - Edinburgh to Dunbar
Part 1 of a two part series discussing the A1, one of Scotland's least discussed trunk roads. Stuart and John are joined by Duncan Macknight, a road history researcher and GMA member as they take a deep dive into Scotland's east coast link to the north of England. In part 1 we consider the history of the route before discussing the dual carriageway section from Edinburgh to Dunbar in more detail. Prepare to be blown away with many new facts, figures and previously untold tales! With Stuart Baird, John Hassall and Duncan Macknight Released May 2021.
S3 Ep 4The M77: History, Planning and Construction
In this episode Stuart and John take a look at the history behind the M77, the main motorway link between Glasgow and Ayrshire. We also discuss the anti-road protests of the 1990s and consider the safety record of the roads it replaced. A few listener questions are squeezed in at the end. With Stuart Baird and John Hassall. Published April 2021.
Ep 41Interview: Chris Marshall of Roads.org.uk on the Glasgow Motorway System
In this episode of the Glasgow Motorway Archive podcast, John and Stuart chat with Chris Marshall of Roads.org.uk! Chris gives his insights on weird and wonderful aspects of Glasgow's motorway system before discussions move onto Scotland, England and various urban motorway schemes. Not to be missed. With John Hassall and Stuart Baird Released March 2021. Apologies for slight audio distortions.
S3 Ep 2The Monkland Motorway: A History
In this episode Stuart and John take a look at the history behind the Monkland Motorway, one of the most important, but lesser loved sections of the M8. We consider how the disused canal provided a unique opportunity and discuss the planning, design and construction stages. Series 3, Episode 2. With Stuart Baird and John Hassall.
S3 Ep 1City Deal Revisited and Trunk Road Upgrades
In this episode we discuss the roads projects being taken forward across Scotland as part of City Deal. We also take a deep dive into some upcoming trunk road improvement projects, including the Sheriffhall Roundabout, A82 and A96. Series 3, Episode 1. Released January 2021. With John Hassall and Stuart Baird. Music by Les Willox.
Ep 40Christmas Special 2020 - Ayrshire's Dual Carriageway Secrets.
In our 2020 Christmas special, we are taking a deep dive into the history of Ayrshire's extensive dual carriageway system. Covering the A71, A77, A78, A79 and even the A76, we reveal several surprising facts and figures! We also discuss the imminent launch of our brand new website. With Stuart, John and Nick.
Ep 39The A8 and A78 - Inverclyde's Expressways?
We are turning our attention westwards in this episode as we take a deep dive into the A8 and A78 in Inverclyde. Dualled throughout the 1970s and 80s, the A8 has many interesting features and quirks. On the A78 we consider the dualled section at the former IBM plant and a few extra thrown in. With Stuart Baird and John Hassall. Recorded via Zoom, hence poor audio quality than usual.
Ep 38M73: Strategic Link or Glorified Slip Road?
In this episode we take a deep dive into the history of the M73. From its origins to more recent upgrades, we consider whether the motorway is a crucial piece of Glasgow's motorway puzzle or nothing more than an extra long slip road. With John Hassall and Stuart Baird.
Ep 37Roads Policing Update with PC Nick
PC Nick joins us to give an update on roads policing in Glasgow. We have a particular focus on how the pandemic has changed traffic levels and on future technology. We also discuss our new website, due to launch this December. With Stuart Baird and John Hassall.
Ep 36The M8 Renfrew Motorway: A Revisit
In this episode we revisit the M8 Renfrew Motorway as it celebrates its 44th birthday. Lots of new things to discuss in this deep delve into its history. We also have an update on our digitisation efforts and some upcoming features. With John Hassall and Stuart Baird.
Ep 35The A9: Part 2 - Perth to Thurso
Part 2 of a two part series discussing the A9, one of Scotland's most important trunk roads. Stuart and John are joined by Duncan Macknight, an A9 history researcher and GMA member as they take a deep dive into one of the UK's longest roads. In part 2 we consider the sections between Perth to Thurso in more detail. Prepare to be blown away with many new facts, figures and previously untold tales!
Ep 34The A9: Part 1 - Route History & Stirling to Perth
Part 1 of a two part series discussing the A9, one of Scotland's most important trunk roads. Stuart and John are joined by Duncan Macknight, an A9 history researcher and GMA member as they take a deep dive into one of the UK's longest roads. In part 1 we consider the history of the route from Edinburgh to Thurso before discussing the Stirling to Perth section in more detail. Prepare to be blown away with many new facts, figures and previously untold tales!
Ep 33Famous Glasgow Streets: How the Motorways Changed Them
In this episode Stuart and John discuss 12 of Glasgow's famous streets and how the construction of the motorway affected them. Those covered in Alexandra Parade, Sauchiehall Street, Buchanan Street and Argyle Street. With Stuart Baird and John Hassall.
Ep 32UK Urban Motorways: Glasgow Vs The Rest
In this episode, John and Stuart consider urban motorways in the UK and discuss how Glasgow compares. Is Glasgow the best? Or are there better options elsewhere? Tune in and find out. With John Hassall and Stuart Baird Music by Les Willox.
Ep 31Roads Declassified: Road Types & Maintenance Revealed
In this podcast we take a deep dive into the classification of roads across Scotland and the history of network maintenance. Learn about what's trunk or primary, special and unclassified! Following that we look at 60 years of network maintenance. Not one to be missed! With Stuart Baird and John Hassall. Released 23/07/2020. Music: “Drawing Mazes” Podington Bear From the Free Music Archive CC BY-NC 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/
Ep 30The M9 Motorway: Planning, Construction & Future
In this episode we analyse the history and construction of the M9 Edinburgh to Stirling motorway. Filled with new facts and figures, and with personal anecdotes from original engineers on the job, this podcast is not to be missed! With John Hassall and Stuart Baird. Released July 10th 2020.
Ep 29Kingston Bridge - 50th Anniversary Special - Part 2 (Revised)
Celebrating 50 years of the M8 Kingston Bridge on June 26th 2020. This is the second part of a two part special. Part 2 covers: the early years of the bridge, the major strengthening and refurbishment works, the bridge today and the future. We also discuss our planned celebrations. With Stuart Baird and John Hassall Revised to correct sound issues. Music: “Drawing Mazes” Podington Bear From the Free Music Archive CC BY-NC 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/
Ep 28Kingston Bridge - 50th Anniversary Special (Part 1)
Celebrating 50 years of the M8 Kingston Bridge on June 26th 2020. This is the first part of a two part special. Part 1 covers: planning and design, construction and opening. With Stuart Baird and John Hassall Music: “Drawing Mazes” Podington Bear From the Free Music Archive CC BY-NC 3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/
Ep 26Podcast 28 - Why Is The Motorway Built There?
In episode 28 we go back to the 1950s and 60s to determine why the M8 through Glasgow is built where it is! We have a specific focus on the city's Comprehensive Development Areas (CDAs), areas earmarked for complete redevelopment. CDA plans led to the demolition of existing properties, shops and in some cases roads. There were 29 CDAs throughout Glasgow, though only some were taken forward and the locations of some will reveal crucial facts about the motorway corridor! With Stuart Baird and John Hassall.
Ep 24Podcast 26 - The A720 Edinburgh City Bypass - Love It or Loathe It?
In episode 26 we head east to Edinburgh to discuss its much maligned bypass. Love it or loathe it, the A720 has an array of facts and figures just waiting to be discussed. Join us as we tell the story of how it came to be and discuss its performance. We squeeze in some of your A720 questions too. Hosted by John Hassall and Stuart Baird. Lothian
Ep 23The M74 Completion (Kingston to Fullarton)
In episode 25 we discuss the M74 Completion project (which stretched from the M8 at Kingston to Fullarton Road) as it approaches it 9th anniversary. We also answer a ton of listener questions and have a new appeal for information. Remember to leave us a rating if you use Apple Podcasts. With John Hassall and Stuart Baird.
Ep 22Revisiting the M8 Renfrew Bypass & the A737
In episode 24 of the GMA podcast we revisit the M8 Renfrew Bypass, the section of motorway between Hillington and Bishopton, and the A737 Johnston - Linwood Bypass. We detail some interesting new facts uncovered during our recent research. We also squeeze in a couple of listener questions! With Stuart Baird and John Hassall.
Ep 21Podcast 23 - Glasgow Motorway Archive: Who are we?
In episode 23 we talk about the Glasgow Motorway Archive, its members, its work and ambitions for the future. We also squeeze in a few listener questions. With John Hassall and Stuart Baird.
Ep 20Podcast 22 - Scotland's Motorways - M90 Special
Join us on Episode 22 of the Glasgow Motorway Archive podcast as we broaden our interest to some motorways outside Glasgow. We start with the M90 - the one between Edinburgh and Perth! We also squeeze in some of your questions and talk about what we've been up to. With Stuart Baird and John Hassall.

Ep 19Podcast 21 - Lanarkshire Edition - A725 & A8! Your Questions Answered.
Join us this month for as we focus on two of Lanarkshire's most important routes: the A725 Bellshill Bypass & Eastkilbride Expressway and the A8 between Baillieston to Newhouse! Delve into the history of these roads and learn how they became the major routes they are today. We also answer your questions and talk about upcoming events. Hosted by John Hassall and Stuart Baird.

Ep 18Podcast 20 - The Unbuilt - South, East & North Link Motorways & Your Questions
In Episode 20 we return to Glasgow's unbuilt roads with a look at the South, East and North Link Motorways. We also answer your burning questions in the first of our new leaner podcasts! Hosted by Stuart Baird and John Hassall.

Ep 17Podcast 19 - Traffic Modelling the Glasgow Highway Plans, Texas Trip, GMA Events & Your Questions
In episode 19 of the Glasgow Motorway Archive podcast, we are delighted to welcome special guest Chris Hunt. A traffic engineer, Chris carried out research to prove whether the network of roads proposed for the Glasgow conurbation in 1967 would have been congestion free with today's traffic flows! He has some fascinating findings! Tying into this, John tells us about his trip to Houston in Texas last November. We also answer your questions and discuss what we've been up to! Hosted by: John Hassall and Stuart Baird. Special Guest: Christopher Hunt.

Ep 16Podcast 18 - 2019 LIVE Christmas Special - M74, M898, A823(M) & Your Questions!
It's Christmas and that means podcast special at the Glasgow Motorway Archive!! Hosted by Stuart Baird, John Hassall and Nick Twigg. Produced by David Treasurer. Originally broadcast live across social media, this edition was recorded on 19th December 2019 and covers the following topics: The M74 J9-12 The M898 New feature: "Scotland's Motorways": The A823(M). We answer your questions throughout the podcast and talk about our activities throughout 2019 and preview 2020.

Ep 15Podcast 17 - Clyde Crossings Face Off, Rare Archive Material & Your Questions Answered!
In Episode 17 of the Glasgow Motorway Archive podcast we cover the following: The Clyde Crossings - Kingston, Clyde Tunnel and Erskine Bridge. Which is best and why? Do you agree with our conclusions?! From the Archive - Clyde Tunnel Commemorative book from 1963. Your questions answered! Upcoming events and more! All in this 90 minute extravaganza! Hosted by Stuart Baird and John Hassall.

Ep 14Podcast 16 - Ayr Motorway, Revealing New Records, Your Questions & More!
In Episode 16 we continue our Unbuilt series with a look at the Ayr Motorway proposals. After this, we unearth some brand new records in our "From the Archive Feature" and answer your questions. Hosted by John Hassall and Stuart Baird.

S1 Ep 11Podcast 13 (July 2019) - The Maryhill Motorway, Questions & Events
Episode 13 of the Glasgow Motorway Archive, published July 2019. This month we have the first in a new series of discussions on Glasgow's unbuilt roads and motorways, starting with the Maryhill & Lomond Motorways. Our "From the Archive" feature continues the subject, with a look at a justification report from 1975. We also answer your questions and discuss some of our upcoming events. Presented by Stuart Baird and John Hassall.

Ep 1Glasgow Motorway Archive Podcast (Christmas 2018)
Welcome to the 6th edition of the Glasgow Motorway Archive, our Christmas 2018 special. Presented by Stuart Baird and John Hassall. In this edition we discuss: The M8 Glasgow Inner Ring Road film from 1974 The M80 Special Guest - Wojciech Borowski New slides and reports received by the Archive Your questions!