Scottish Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser has said the £118 million Cross Tay Link Road (CTLR) is “vital” to the Perthshire economy and stressed it must go ahead.
The politician believes the CTLR is a project that is “essential” to residents in Perth and its surrounding area as it will generate millions of pounds to the local economy, while also addressing concerns about air quality by diverting traffic out of Perth city centre.
The CTLR scheme aims to tackle congestion and air pollution with a new road to be built between the A9 and A94. It has already been granted £40 million funding from the SNP Government, but it has faced recent criticism from local Green councillors, who have called for it to be scrapped.
Commenting, Mr Fraser, who represents the Mid Scotland and Fife region, said: “The Cross Tay Link Road is vital to the Perthshire economy. I totally agree with the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce who have said the project must go ahead in order to help the future growth of Perth and its surrounding area.
“Councillor Murray Lyle, leader of Perth and Kinross Council, has said the local authority are committed to delivering the CTLR and they are correct. It should proceed as it will bring major economic and environmental benefits to the Perth City area.
“Council leader Murray Lyle has said CTLR will lead to £966 million of private sector investment in housing and employment and the construction of the project will generate £484 million of additional value to the economy.”
Mr Fraser continued: “The CTLR is vital for reducing traffic in Perth city centre and tackling air pollution in the Bridgend area of Perth and also in Atholl Street. Those who have called for the project to be axed on environmental grounds have got it all wrong – it will be much easier to create more cycle and pedestrian capacity in Perth if we reduce car numbers.
“Cancelling the project will only add to the pollution problems for Perth residents. It is essential that the CTLR goes ahead.”