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Aberdeen bypass given green light | Aberdeen bypass given green light |
(20 minutes later) | |
The controversial Aberdeen bypass has been approved by ministers. | The controversial Aberdeen bypass has been approved by ministers. |
The Scottish government has given the project the go-ahead after considering the findings of a local inquiry. | |
Industry figures welcomed the decision on the £395m project, which is aimed at easing traffic and improving business in the north east. | |
But opponents have criticised the cost and the environmental impact of the 28-mile bypass. Campaign group Road Sense said it would take legal advice. | |
Finance Secretary John Swinney said: "This has been a complex issue in which there has been a wide range of issues to consider. | |
"There has also been significant public interest in the proposed route, with clear arguments on both sides. | |
"Having given careful consideration to the issues and arguments, I agree with the reporters' findings and reasoning, and with their recommendation to proceed with the bypass." | |
Plans for the bypass have divided opinion in the north east | |
He said the bypass was one of the most important infrastructure projects in the north east, bringing a range of substantial benefits to the region. | |
Mr Swinney said it would reduce congestion in the heart of the city as well as remove thousands of vehicles from the area's rural roads. | |
Scottish Council for Development and Industry (SCDI) north east manager Ian Armstrong said it would "boost economic recovery and confidence". | |
However, a Road Sense spokeswoman said the group was extremely disappointed at the decision and expected there would be grounds for a legal challenge, including a judicial review. | |
She predicted that would cause significant delays to the project. |