The Scottish Government has pledged an extra £50 million towards Tay Cities projects.
The investment – part of a promised £200 million windfall – will pay for a new bridge over the River Tay, linking the A94 north of Scone with the A9 between Inveralmond and Luncarty.
There was concern about the £120 million Cross Tay Link Road scheme when it was unexpectedly omitted from the Tay Cities’ heads of terms agreement, announced in November.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed the £40m investment for the new infrastructure during a visit to Perth College on Monday morning.
A further £10 million will go towards industrial investment programme to support manufacturing in Dundee, Perth, Angus and the north of Fife.
The funding is in addition to the £300 million already committed to the Tay Cities Deal from the UK and Scottish governments.
Commenting on money for the Tay Crossing, Perth and Kinross Council leader Murray Lyle said: “This is fantastic news for Perth. We are absolutely delighted with this funding, which means people in Perth and Kinross will enjoy better road connections and improved air quality, while opening up access to development land and housing and better connectivity across Scotland.”
“While the CTLR will improve journey times for many, it is important to note that this is about much more than simply a new road. From the construction itself, which will be managed in such a way that it supports local jobs and skills development, through to the broad range of housing and business it will access, the CTLR is absolutely key to the future expansion of Perth and Kinross, the beating heart of Scotland.
He added: “We know that people want to come and live and work in Perth and Kinross, to live life well and enjoy the excellent connectivity and quality of life we have to offer. Today’s news means that we can move forward with confidence, starting a new chapter in Perth and Kinross’s story.”
Local SNP MP John Swinney said: “This additional £50m investment is welcome news, and indicative of the Scottish Government’s steadfast commitment to transforming the Tayside region.
“The Cross Tay Link Road will markedly improve traffic congestion and air quality, whilst opening up Perth and the surrounding areas to further development, expansion and investment.”
He added: “I am therefore delighted that this vital infrastructure project has been approved, and I look forward to the sustained benefits it will bring in the decades to come.”
SNP MSP Pete Wishart added: “It is great to hear that the Scottish Government are bringing forward an additional £40 million to see the vital Cross Tay Link Road become a reality. This is a significant investment in Perthshire, and one that will help to support the growing population in and around the Fair City.
“I am certain that the additional funding to support manufacturing businesses in the local area will also be hugely welcome. Overall, the Tay Cities Deal will be massively important to the Perthshire economy and I look forward to seeing the projects commence.”
