You can have your say on Stewartfield Way

The public consultation has now begun for the £62million plans to upgrade Stewartfield Way.

A key part of Central Scotland’s road network, views on the plans to dual the road are being sought from residents in East Kilbride and the 23,000 motorists who use the carriageway each day.

Part of the business proposal for the scheme was an estimation of the worth to the local area if the project were to get the go-ahead.

Financial experts KPMG undertook research into the matter, estimating the project could be worth around £570m to the East Kilbride area. However, there are a number of opponents to the proposals who say the disadvantages outweigh the benefits.

Completion of the project is expected to take up to three years, with many branding the £62million proposals a“massive waste of money”.

The plans are part of the wider Glasgow Region City Deal, with eight local authorities having their say on where the money is spent.

The single-carriage way road is seen as a“missing link”in the wider road network which connects the city region through major roads including the M74, the M8, M77 and the East Kilbride Expressway.

Plans to upgrade Stewartfield Way have been in local plans for more than 20 years – now South Lanarkshire Council want those affected to have their say.

The public are invited to attend two information events to be held in Stewartfield Community Centre on November 26 from 1pm to 8pm, and in the Plaza at East Kilbride Town Centre on November 27 from 9am to 5pm.

In addition, views will be welcomed via an online questionnaire, or by writing to South Lanarkshire Council.

Those should be sent to: South Lanarkshire Council, Roads and Transportation Services, Montrose House, 154 Montrose Crescent, Hamilton, ML3 6LB,

Views can also be emailed to roadsandtransportation@ southlanarkshire.gov.uk

The consultation will close on December 20 with results expected to be available in the first quarter of the NewYear.