Many concerns were expressed even by Labour councillors. For example they asked for social rented housing but no assurance was given on this, at least in the popular areas. They also suggested that the Canal was only going to be of benefit to those living alongside but largely lost as an asset to Glasgow's citizens as a whole.

In particular the SNP councillors were concerned about plans for 8-storey flats opposite Speirs Wharf. These would largely block the present stunning view of this listed building from a wide area of the City. SNP and independent councillors voted against this part of the plan and 2 Labour councillors abstained but it was still carried by 10 votes to 3. Afterwards Cllr John Mason said, "This policy of cramming as many flats as possible onto the canal banks is real short-termism. The longer term benefits of protecting listed buildings, encouraging open space, and making the canal available to all our citizens appears to be being sacrifised."