Queensferry folk most vocal over new Forth bridge
RESIDENTS in Queensferry are more concerned over the new Forth Replacement Crossing than those living elsewhere.
The news emerged when statistics just released revealed the number of people who responded after public information exhibitions earlier this year.
The figures, in a document published by Transport Scotland, show Queensferry locals were the most vocal when it came to commenting on the crossing – accounting for around 40 per cent of responders.
And their concerns over the bridge project were evident with more than 800 individual comments made over key areas such as accessibility, public transport and construction.
Other worries related to the environ-ment, such as pollution and noise.
But Transport Scotland says changes made to the design of the connecting roads in the Queensferry area will "help reduce" the impact of the scheme.
An environmental impact assessment which will explain the potential impacts and identify mitigation measures is expected to be completed soon.
Project director John Howison said: "Feedback from the community in Queensferry highlighted concerns about the visual impact of the proposed connect-ing road embankment, and a desire to move the junction to another location to reduce traffic levels on Builyeon Road and provide more direct bus access."
However, there still remain concerns over the new bridge's works compound, to be built at the western edge of the town.
The site, which will have parking for up to 300 vehicles and house an accomm-odation block and a visitor's centre, has created a stir with residents in that area.
Society Road resident Becky Short said: "It just can't be right to build such a big compound so near to housing. They will be building for at least five years and working from 7am to 7pm each week day and Saturdays mornings."
Edinburgh West MSP Margaret Smith added that she will oppose plans to create a works compound so close to housing at Echline and Springfield.
But a Transport Scotland spokesman aimed to calm fears saying: "The proposed sites for the compounds are still to be finalised.
Consideration on the main compound at Echline is based on a number of factors including the area of land required for the main construction compound and access to undertake construction activities, particularly to the foreshore for marine works.
''The proposed location for the compound south of the Forth, Echline Field, is owned by Scottish Ministers. By utilising this location, we can avoid taking additional land from another landowner."
Find out more at www.transportscotland.gov.uk or visit www.feta.gov.uk
editorial@journalandgazette.co.uk
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Saturday 04 February 2012
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