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MSPs to scrutinise bridge plans Forth bridge 'still on schedule'
(about 17 hours later)
Plans for a new bridge over the Forth are to be scrutinised by the Scottish Parliament's transport committee. The new Forth crossing will be delivered on time and on budget, the government agency Transport Scotland has reiterated.
Members of the committee will question project managers for the Forth Replacement Crossing. Interim project director John Howison told Holyrood's transport committee the replacement bridge would be built by 2016, despite the economic downturn.
The current plans from Transport Scotland involve a new £2.3bn bridge, with the existing crossing being designated for public transport only. The cost of the proposed project has been put at up to £2.3bn.
The public have already been asked to tell the government what they think of that proposal. If approved by MSPs, could start next year, with construction lasting a further five years.
After detailed examination by the committee at Holyrood, the parliament as a whole will have its say in a few months time. Meanwhile, the public has been asked to have its say on proposals to use the existing 45-year-old bridge, which is showing signs of deterioration, for public transport only.
The current road bridge was opened in 1964 and is beginning to show signs of deterioration. The new bridge would need to be approved under a bill currently going through parliament.
If approved, work on the new crossing could start next year, with construction lasting a further five years.