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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 decided to proceed after considering the findings and recommendations of a public local inquiry. The Scottish government has given the project the go-ahead after considering the findings of a local inquiry.
The 28-mile bypass is aimed at easing traffic and improving business in the north east. Industry figures welcomed the decision on the £395m project, which is aimed at easing traffic and improving business in the north east.
However opponents - such as campaign group Road Sense - have criticised the cost and the potential environmental impact of the project. 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.