The Duke of Gloucester will formally open the new M74 on 28th June 2011. The £445m extension has been completed on budget and 8 months ahead of schedule.
The Duke of Gloucester will visit Scotland on 28 June to formally
open the new M74.
Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment Alex
Neil announced the Royal Opening for this £445 million
flagship project which is expected to bring significant benefits to
Glasgow and beyond.
Mr Neil said:
"We look forward to welcoming the Duke of Gloucester to mark the
opening of the M74 Completion, the biggest infrastructure project
on the ground in Scotland in recent years which was consented to
and taken forward by this Scottish Government.
"My officials at Transport Scotland have worked closely and
effectively with the contractor and our local authority partners
involved in the project's delivery. The fact that we are now so
close to final completion of this complex scheme is testament to
the excellent stewardship in the face of many civil engineering
challenges.
"When the M74 opens in just a few weeks time, eight months ahead of
schedule and on budget, the new route will provide improved access
to economic, employment and education opportunities for the people
of Scotland. It will also bring enormous potential for further
urban regeneration programmes in the west of Scotland, many of
which are already in development while delivering significant
improvements in journey times and removing traffic from the
Kingston Bridge."
Councillor Gordon Matheson, Leader of Glasgow City Council,
said:
"We're delighted to have a member of the Royal Family open the
M74.
"For years, Glasgow made the case for the completion of the M74
and, since day one, has been the force behind the project. We know
the finished road will bring opportunities for thousands of
individuals and businesses, support East End regeneration, and help
us deliver the best possible 2014 Commonwealth Games.
"Its completion is vital to the future growth and success of
Glasgow's economy and of the whole country."
David Welsh, Interlink M74 Project Director said
"We are delighted to be celebrating with our project team and
distinguished guests the opening of the M74 Completion some eight
months early.
"We would like to take this opportunity to thank our neighbours for
their cooperation during the three year construction period."
Information for motorists using the new route will be announced in
due course.
Source: Transport
Scotland