Residents win fight to move bridge builders' compound

Published on Thursday 19 November 2009 09:13

RESIDENTS living close to the site for the new Forth road bridge have won a battle to stop a construction compound being built on their doorsteps.

Transport Scotland originally planned to site the compound – which will include parking for 300 cars – on government-owned land to the east of the new approach road next to the Springfield estate in South Queensferry.

However, residents protested at the massive disruption which they would face for the next six years while the new crossing is built.

Now the transport agency, which is overseeing the 2 billion bridge project, has agreed to put the compound to the west side of the approach road instead.

Doug Tait, vice-chairman of Bridge Replacement Interests Group South (Brigs), which represents local residents, said common sense had prevailed.

He said: "This is absolutely a no-brainer. They planned to place the compound right up against people's houses all down the west side of South Queensferry, with juggernauts all day from 7am to 7pm for six years."

Brigs, which includes residents and community councils from South Queensferry, Newton, Kirkliston and areas of Edinburgh such as Cramond and Barnton, was formed to protect the interests of people who are going to be affected by the new bridge.

Mr Tait added: "There are many more battles to be won, but this is a great start."

Edinburgh West Liberal Democrat MSP Margaret Smith said: "This wasn't just putting something behind people's houses for a few months. It would have been major disruption for several years."

Ms Smith, who has criticised Transport Scotland in the past for conducting "sham" consultations, added: "It looks as if this time we have managed to persuade them. I'm pleased they have listened."

The land where the agency originally planned to put the compound, Echline Field East, is owned by the Scottish Government.

Echline Field West, where the compound will now be built, is privately-owned and will therefore involve additional cost.

The final choice of site needs approval from MSPs.

A spokeswoman for Transport Scotland said: "Two options were assessed for the main construction compound at the South Queensferry site.

"Transport Scotland's recommendation is to take forward the option that has least impact on local communities. However, this would be subject to parliament granting compulsory purchasing powers."