This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Ministers back new Forth crossing
14/02/2007
The Cabinet today gave approval for a replacement crossing over the Firth of Forth between Fife and Lothian.
Following consideration of three reports submitted by Transport Scotland, ministers agreed in principle that work should continue on identifying a final recommendation of what type of crossing is required, the location of the crossing, and the costs involved.
A final recommendation will be considered by Cabinet in the Summer (2007), following submission of the final reports from Transport Scotland.
Today Transport Minister Tavish Scott was able to confirm:
- a replacement crossing is required
- that three corridors for the location have been identified
- the crossing will be either a bridge or a tunnel
Mr Scott said:
"The scale of the crossing, which will cost at least £1 billion, will be the biggest construction project since devolution. Cabinet is clear doing nothing is not an option given the importance of this crossing to the Scottish economy and the people of Fife.
"Cabinet agreed today to take forward the replacement crossing. Work will continue to assist a final decision which will be made this summer on where the crossing will be, what it will be, and how much it will cost."
The final two Transport Scotland reports will be completed at the end of May 2007. These will assess the three corridors in detail, draw together all report findings and recommend a preferred crossing option.