Milestone in project to improve M8

A MOTORWAY improvement scheme which could cut journey times between Scotland’s largest cities has reached a major milestone, according to Transport Minister Keith Brown.

An agreement between Transport Scotland and contractors means advance work can start without delay on the M8 between Glasgow and Edinburgh and the connected M73 and M74.

Hundreds of jobs will be created through the project, which has seen costs driven down by about £105 million, he said.

The work continues to break new ground, by being the first UK roads project to use bond finance since the global financial crash and the largest non-profit distribution project to reach this stage, he said.

“In order to deliver the project at the earliest opportunity, I am also pleased to announce that Transport Scotland has entered into a pre-start works agreement with the contractor,” Mr Brown said.

“This will allow advance works to progress without delay with the contract expected to be signed during February.

“The motorway link between the country’s two largest cities is absolutely pivotal to Scotland’s sustainable economic growth and the improvements made by this project will drive significant economic benefits for businesses and improve road safety and accessibility for road users the length and breadth of the country.

“Completing the M74 directly supported 900 construction jobs — the large majority of which were filled by workers from the local area —and we expect this project will deliver similar benefits to the local economy.

“The project will also provide sustainable long-term employment opportunities throughout the 30-year operation and maintenance on these key routes.”

Picture: HEMEDIA. Transport Minister Keith Brown.