PLANS for a new £90million bridge over the River Clyde which would link Renfrew with Yoker are at risk after a council raised concerns over traffic problems.
The bridge is one of a number of projects included in the £1billion Glasgow City Deal programme and is expected to improve access to employment, education, health and leisure for communities on both sides of the river.
However, West Dunbartonshire Council, which is one of the local authorities included in the City Deal, has objected.
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A “status report” prepared for the City Region Cabinet highlights concerns raised by the Dumbarton-based authority about the flagship project.
The report noted that a public local inquiry (PLI) would be required if the objection is maintained.
It added that the length of any potential delay is unknown but it could be up to 12 months before a PLI is scheduled.
The bridge plan is the centrepiece of a redevelopment of the Clyde waterfront and Renfrew riverside that also includes connecting roads, cycle routes and pedestrian walkways.
The aim is to improve access to work, education and hospitals by reforming infrastructure.
The bridge would span three council areas, from Renfrewshire on the southside to the boundary between Yoker in Glasgow and Clydebank in West Dunbartonshire.
Scottish Government ministers recently approved the project and supporters believe it could plough £867million into the local economy.
The official report for the project states: “The transformed waterfront area will attract new developments, promoting residential, industrial, commercial, business, retail and leisure opportunities.
“More than 470 people will be involved in the initial construction of the bridge and new roads which, combined with the business growth and new developments attracted to the waterfront, is expected to bring 2,360 jobs.”
But the objection by West Dunbartonshire Council could see the plan’s status become “unachievable.”
The project has currently been granted “amber” status but the report says a delay could turn it to “red,” which is defined as: “Successful delivery of the project as detailed in the business case appears to be unachievable.”
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A spokesman for Renfrewshire Council said: “Planning consent was granted by Scottish Government ministers for the Clyde Waterfront and Renfrew Riverside project last month and we continue to work closely with all partners to ensure the project delivers on its significant potential and the benefits reach all communities on both sides of the Clyde.”
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