FM hands Tay bridge project £40m boost

She continued: “I am confident the Scottish Government’s overall investment of £200m in the Tay Cities region will improve people’s quality of life and encourage sustainable economic growth in the Tay area and Scotland as a whole.”

Councillor Murray Lyle, leader of the council, said: “This is fantastic news for Perth.

“We are absolutely delighted with this funding, which means people in Perth and Kinross will enjoy better road connections and improved air quality, while opening up access to development land and housing and better connectivity across Scotland.

“While the CTLR will improve journey times for many, it is important to note that this is about much more than simply a new road.

“The CTLR is absolutely key to the future expansion of Perth and Kinross, the beating heart of Scotland.

“Today’s news means that we can move forward with confidence, starting a new chapter in Perth and Kinross’ story.”

This funding is in addition to the Scottish Government’s £150m commitment to the Tay Cities Region Deal and brings overall Scottish Government investment in the area to £200m over the next 10 to 15 years.

Perthshire North MSP, John Swinney, also shared Councillor Lyle’s sentiment.

He commented: “This additional £50m investment is welcome news, and indicative of the Scottish Government’s steadfast commitment to transforming the Tayside region.

“The Cross Tay Link Road will markedly improve traffic congestion and air quality, whilst opening up Perth and the surrounding areas to further development, expansion and investment.

“I am therefore delighted that this vital infrastructure project has been approved.”

The CTLR has been viewed as a top priority for Perth and Kinross Council throughout the Tay Cities negotiations but the bridge has been criticised for its potential to create air pollution.

However, Mark Ruskell, Green MSP for Mid-Scotland and Fife, voiced his concerns over the proposed plans.

He said: “While the bridge will reduce pollution in the short term in Perth there are still major questions about long term increases in traffic growth that may follow. The current design effectively drives a huge distributor road through planned housing in Scone. The Scottish Government needs to ensure this bridge will not just shift the pollution and congestion problems around.”