Campaigners against the Aberdeen bypass have lost their appeal to the UK’s Supreme Court. Among those welcoming today’s decision was North Kincardine councillor Ian Mollison.

He said: “The years of uncertainty have not been good for objectors or supporters of the route. Now the Scottish Government can get on with the job of building a road which will take the pressure off the existing A90 and off the unofficial bypass – the Netherley road.”

The 28-mile road was given the green light by Scottish ministers in 2009. However, campaigners led by Westhill resident William Walton challenged the decision through the courts including a two-day hearing at the Supreme Court in London earlier this year. Mr Walton now lives in Newcastle.

Business leaders and several politicians have been critical of legal delays to the road, arguing it is vital for the North East economy.

North East Liberal Democrat MSP Alison McInnes commented: “I welcome the Supreme Court’s judgement and sincerely hope that Mr Walton will accept it and allow this vital project to proceed without further delay.

“The Scottish Government must now act quickly to drive this project forward. It has had months to finalise its plans while awaiting this latest appeal. It needs to finally provide a concrete timetable, details of the construction costs and explain how it will fund the project. It can no longer blame legal gridlock for its inaction.”

Sir Robert Smith, Liberal Democrat MP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, added: “The North East of Scotland’s crucial role in supporting the economy requires effective transport links. The Scottish Government must now deliver the project as quickly as possible.”

Sir Malcolm Bruce, Scottish Liberal Democrat MP for Gordon, stated: “The Scottish Government now needs to proceed to construct this vital route as soon as possible and stop needlessly delaying the Balmedie-Tipperty A90 upgrade. The by-pass is essential for the development of the Gordon constituency but it is only part of the transport plan for the North East.

“It is clear that our local road infrastructure does not meet the needs of our expanding local communities and businesses. The AWPR, alongside the Third Don Crossing and improvements to the Haudagain, will help relieve the congestion problems that blight Aberdeen.”

More details on the Supreme Court’s judgement can be found here:

http://www.supremecourt.gov.uk/docs/uksc-2012-0098-press-summary.pdf

http://www.supremecourt.gov.uk/docs/uksc-2012-0098-judgment.pdf