This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Approval of major transport projects
24/02/2006
The process for scrutinising and approving major transport projects is to be replaced, it was announced today as a consultation was launched on the Parliament's proposals for a new Transport & Works Bill.
The proposals include:
- The promoter of a development conducts extensive consultation with all affected persons of the proposal and applies to Scottish Ministers for an Order
- Scottish Ministers commence an objection period
- Once the objection period ceases, Scottish Ministers and, if necessary, the Scottish Parliament consider general criteria in relation to the proposal
- Scottish Ministers appoint an independent reporter to consider in detail the proposal
- Scottish Ministers review the reporter's recommendations and make a final Order for Parliamentary approval
Acknowledging the Parliament's contribution to the process, Transport Minister Tavish Scott said the Executive will work with the Parliament to ensure their proposals lead to simpler, practical legislation.
This process will complement the modernisation proposals contained within the Planning Bill currently going through the Parliament.
Mr Scott said:
"This devolved government is committed to a programme of major transport infrastructure projects to improve our transport network and get Scotland's goods and people moving.
"The current private bills procedure for approving these projects has proved to be tortuous and complex and has taken up a lot of MSP's valuable time.
"We want the process to be more efficient and simplify procedures for promoters and objectors, while at the same time ensuring fairness, transparency and proper scrutiny for any proposed projects."
The deadline for consultation responses is May 19.