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New
plans designed to improve strategic transport planning
 New
plans designed to improve strategic transport planning, pave the way for a
Dalry by pass and reduce road works and delays have been welcomed by
Cunninghame North MSP Allan Wilson. The new Transport Bill, published by the
Scottish Executive, will also allow the extension of the concessionary
travel scheme for older people and introduce a scheme of national bus, rail
and ferry concessionary travel for young people.
The Executive have also published a consultation document asking for views
on what the make-up of new regional transport partnerships (Raps) should be.
It is expected that Raps will bring together a range of organisations to
oversee the development of the transport network locally and Allan Wilson is
looking for the views of local people on how these important new bodies
should be shaped.
Commenting on the Bill Allan Wilson said “This is a wide-ranging Bill that
can greatly help improve the way in which we deliver strategic transport
improvements. The new national transport agency will play a key role in
delivering major improvements to our transport infrastructure. The proposed
regional transport partnerships can also bring together local government,
local businesses, transport operators and other important stakeholders. They
will be able to look at the problems of our transport network with a new
perspective, target improvements and respond to local needs such as the case
for a Dalry by pass.”
“I am also delighted that this Bill will extend the concessionary travel
scheme for older people to allow national travel, a commitment made in the
Labour Party manifesto. Older people from North Ayrshire will soon be able
to travel across Scotland for free. I know that many young people in
Scotland also struggle with travel costs, especially those in full time
education. That is why there is also a commitment to introducing a similar
concessionary scheme for younger people in Scotland which has my full
support.”
The Cunninghame North MSP also welcomed the proposals to reduce poorly
managed road works and increase the penalties for road works that are not
completed in time. He added “There are also powers included in the Bill to
address the problem of utility road works, improving co-ordination, and
tightening the requirements for reinstating and resurfacing roads to an
appropriate standard. Road works lead to congestion and delay. I am hopeful
that these moves will reduce the need for the same roads to be dug up again
and again, and reduce the frustration of motorists fed up being stuck in
traffic.”
“I believe that this Bill can help us develop our plans for a Dalry by pass
and reduce congestion through Dalry. That will be good for our local economy
and good for the people of communities such as Dalry.”
NOTE:
Copies of the Executive’s consultation can be
requested from 55 Hamilton Street, Saltcoats or can be accessed on-line at
www.scotland.gov.uk/consultations
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