Trust’s dual call on Tay Link Road

Design revision is urged

Perth Civic Trust has said Perth and Kinross Council should seriously consider revising the design of its proposed Cross Tay Link Road to make it a dual carriageway.

In a submission to the consultation on A&J Stephen’s controversial application to build up to 700 houses north of Scone the Trust has also raised concerns about the proposed development’s and the new bridge’s potential impact on the green belt around Perth.

Commenting on the latest “strategy” to somehow deliver the proposed Scone North development and the new river crossing “in parallel” the Trust says in its submission that it believes the CTLR should be constructed before any new housing development is allowed to go ahead north of Scone.

Seemingly referring to suggestions that the CTLR will reduce the amount of traffic travelling through Bridgend once it is in place the Trust’s letter reads: “There is no evidence which states the traffic on the A94 would be reduced at Bridgend.

“There is every reason to suggest that the traffic would be increased at Bridgend further contributing to the adverse air quality. Further studies should be undertaken to see the impact of traffic on Scone and Bridgend.

“The Trust believes that further studies should be undertaken regularly to quantify changes in traffic patterns and the impact of traffic on Scone and Bridgend.

“The Trust advocates strongly that no construction should be started until the CTLR is built.”

The Trust’s letter to PKC planners continues: “The Trust supports the CTLR but is concerned that developments may further erode the green belt.

“The green belt should be designated to the north of the Cross Tay Link Road. The Cross Tay Link Road should delineate the housing development and the green belt.

“To ease the flow of traffic, especially for major events in the area, particularly the annual Game Fair, music festivals at Scone Palace ...and the regular race meetings and other events held at the racecourse... the design of the road is paramount.

“The Trust believes that junctions should be grade separated or larger roundabouts.

“Bearing in mind the impact on traffic movements on the A9 and the costs while dual works are underway and will be continuing for the next ten years the Trust [believes] the CTLR should be dual carriageway.”

A& J Stephen’s application for the proposed Scone North development is currently awaiting a decision from PKC planners.