On this page:

News Release

This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007

Listen

Study to consider Dalry bypass

28/06/2004

A full study into road problems at Dalry will also include the possibility of a bypass.

Consultants will identify the problems and how best to tackle them, and look at how improvements to roads can be integrated with better public transport.

Following a meeting with North Ayrshire Council, Transport Minister Nicol Stephen said:

"The Executive is committed to supporting transport improvements which improve the quality of life in Scotland's communties. Traffic problems caused by through traffic in and around Dalry, including heavy goods vehicles, are a matter of serious local concern.

"We are determined to take action which will improve the existing situation and reduce the inconvenience for residents.

"This study will look at all the options for improving the A737 in and around Dalry, including the role of enhancements to public transport. I am aware of the strong local demand for a bypass and we will consider this option carefully.

"The Executive is already improving North Ayrshire's roads. For example, the new A78 Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Stevenston Bypass is on schedule to open early next year. This study will allow us to make further improvements on the A737."

The study will be conducted following the Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance. A consultant will be appointed by the end of summer and the report is expected to be submitted to the Executive in the Spring of 2005.

The results of the Dalry study will be taken into consideration during the forthcoming Strategic Transport Projects Review to be undertaken by the new national transport agency. This will commence before 2007.

The Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance (STAG) was originally issued as a consultation document in July 2001 and the final version was launched by the Transport Minister Nicol Stephen in September 2003. STAG sets out on objective led process for the consideration of transport options that best meet national, regional and local transport policies and strategies.

It is a requirement of the Scottish Executive that any transport project for which it provides funding or approval must be appraised in accordance with STAG.

Page updated: Saturday, July 17, 2004