Summary
THE decision of the Scottish Executive to approve a new road crossing over the Forth is very welcome indeed. The existing road bridge is suffering both from corrosion and over-use, which means it has a limited life expectancy in its present form. For that reason, The Scotsman has campaigned vigorously for a new bridge (or tunnel) in order to maintain this vital transport artery, without which the economic life of the east of Scotland would be jeopardised.
Originally, the Executive planned to postpone taking a decision on a new crossing until after the Holyrood elections. This reflected pressure from some elements of the environmental lobby who are opposed to any new crossing on the grounds (allegedly) that it will only increase road congestion. However, the Executive has been wise enough to change its mind and bring forward the green light for the new crossing. First, because a second bridge (or tunnel) will relieve congestion, not increase it. And second, because any delay in opening the crossing beyond 2013 - when the existing road bridge will be closed to goods traffic - would have a disastrous impact on the economies of Fife, the Lothians and beyond.See the full content of this document
Extract
Leader: Let's Go Forth Without Delay
Yesterday's decision is only the beginning of the process. A series of important hurdles must now be cleared - and cleared as quickly as possible. Choices have to be made between a bridge and a tunnel, and...
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