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Forth Replacement Crossing
19/12/2007
The Forth Replacement Crossing is to be a cable-stayed bridge upstream of the existing road bridge.
The option agreed by Ministers will be delivered in the quickest possible timescale and at the lowest cost. It will also improve transport connections and reduce the CO2 emissions generated by the current crossing.
Announcing the decision to Parliament today, Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth John Swinney said:
"A modern, efficient transport network is vital to a thriving, prosperous economy.
"Concerns over the future viability of the existing bridge mean that we need to act now to protect the future of cross-Forth travel for generations to come. A Forth Replacement Crossing is essential.
"The decision to proceed with plans for a cable stayed bridge has not been taken lightly. We have considered in detail the arguments for all the options.
"A cable stay bridge has lower overall risk and can be used by all types of traffic, including freight, pedestrians and cyclists and is considerably cheaper to deliver. It also provides for a more affordable dedicated public transport corridor to allow use by buses, light rail or trams.
"This decision on the FRC sits well with our strategic objectives to make Scotland, greener, wealthier and fairer. It supports our objectives of becoming a global leader in our response to climate change and safeguarding our natural and built heritage.
"We are supporting commuters, supporting business and protecting the environment. This crossing will ensure that we continue to provide and effective transport network and achieve that goal."