Unlocking the Economic Potential of Perth
By Grant Laing, Perth & Kinross Council Leader
“As the single largest infrastructure project ever undertaken by Perth & Kinross Council, the Cross Tay Link Road project is hugely important to the future of Perth & Kinross, both environmentally and economically.
“First and foremost, the diversion of heavy traffic away from the city centre, and particularly Atholl Street, will go a long way to reducing pollution and securing our ambitions to become one of Europe’s most sustainable small cities.
“Perth is irrefutably beautiful, offering wide pedestrianised walkways and easy access to the River Tay and the green parklands of the North and South Inches. Now, with cleaner air and lower congestion, we can capitalise even more on the appeal of our natural environment, to bring new and exciting opportunities for all.
“Fewer heavy vehicles and lower rates of through-traffic is undoubtedly more appealing to those users who wish to visit, shop, eat out and enjoy the attractions on offer such as Perth Museum. Our hope long term, therefore, is that the reduction in congestion will increase footfall and make Perth a more attractive proposition for residents, businesses and visitors alike.
“Perth’s location and well-connected road network has always been a big mark in our favour, and the New Kingsway and Destiny Bridge will play a vital role in exploiting new development opportunities, attracting investment and building on success.
“As well as impacting these big picture strategies, during construction the project has created job opportunities and tackled local skills shortages through a robust outreach and training programme.
"And, importantly, the project has both assisted and generated several legacy projects including the Denmarkfield allotments and community orchard, the new active travel path network and the community artwork project, all of which will bring enjoyment and health benefits for our Perth and Kinross residents for many years to come.”
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