Simpson: Let people in on road plan

A Central Scotland MSP has again called for plans to dual Stewartfield Way to be put to the people.

Former East Kilbride councillor Graham Simpson spoke out after City Deal leaders appeared before a Holyrood committee.

When quizzed by Mr Simpson, Glasgow City Council leader, Councillor Susan Aitken, confirmed that some councils wanted to revisit their projects in terms of their long-term economic and community benefits.

The local government and communities committee is conducting an inquiry into city deals and grilled council leaders from across Scotland.

Whilst no one had asked to remove projects from the Glasgow City Region Deal, she confirmed that some councils wanted to take another look at plans.

Mr Simpson said: “That is a sensible approach and one that South Lanarkshire Council should adopt.

“I’m not saying we scrap the Stewartfield Way project.

“The planned flyover at Kingsgate has always made sense to me and anyone else who knows the road. That’s where congestion occurs and nobody would argue with it.

“What is crystal clear is that there is no need to dual the whole of Stewartfield Way, there is no case for it and there has certainly been no consultation with the residents who will be most impacted.”

Mr Simpson added: “I have to give credit to Glasgow City Council, they are in the process of rectifying that, with engagement with the local communities taking place.

“South Lanarkshire Council should follow suit and engage with the people of East Kilbride, seeking their views on the best use of the Glasgow City Deal funds for the town.

“We all know the answer to that one, as my recent survey showed the people of the town are increasingly frustrated with a poor train service and believe money would be better spent improving that.”