Transport Scotland survey shows majority opposed bridge

16/1/08

Responses from the Transport Scotland survey on the new Forth crossing released to the Transport Committee yesterday show that only one in four survey participants favoured the bridge option chosen by the Scottish Government. 48% of respondents favoured a tunnel, 27% wanted the bridge with the remainder having no preference or opposing a new crossing altogether.  

Commenting on this news, Margaret Smith MSP said:

“Having spoken to a number of my constituents about the plans for a new Forth crossing, I do not find these survey results at all surprising. What I do find shocking is the way in which the Scottish Government has completely ignored public opinion in their decision-making on this vital issue.

“The Finance Minister has claimed that they chose the bridge option because of the negative environmental impacts of a tunnel, however, it is clear from the Forth Crossing Study that a bridge would be more damaging to the natural assets of the area.

‘“I cannot believe the Scottish Government’s arrogance in ignoring both expert and public opinion on this issue and I know that a number of my constituents and others across the country share my concerns about the future of Scottish transport links under the current administration.”