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Decisions sought on transport priorities

Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce is one of the signatories on an open letter which has been sent to Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson by representatives from a range of business organisations and companies in the North-east.

The letter outlines the business community’s frustration over continued delays to North-east transport infrastructure projects and asks for the Minister’s support in areas which fall within his remit and sphere of influence.

The letter also outlines the importance of investment in transport infrastructure continuing to be a key priority for the Government during a time of constraints in public-sector finance. It emphasises that the future economic prosperity of the region and the ability to create additional jobs for its people is dependent on supporting businesses which are based here and encouraging new firms to locate in the North-east rather than in other parts of the world.

Chamber Chief Executive Bob Collier, who signed the letter on behalf of AGCC, said that it sent a unified message from the North-east business community who are becoming increasingly frustrated and concerned about the delays and the impact that they have on these.

“The primary focus is the lack of progress with the AWPR and while we understand that the decision on the next steps lie with the Courts and is therefore currently outwith the Government’s power, there has been a knock-on effect on other transport projects and we believe that progress could be made – and should be made now – as a matter of urgency.

“The wealth generated in the North-east benefits the whole of Scotland and the rest of the UK so anchoring that wealth-making ability by providing a fit for purpose transport infrastructure, is a national priority, not just a local one.

“The joint views expressed in the letter very much reflect the focus of the Chamber’s own Transport Campaign which is running throughout the year and will raise awareness on transport issues across all sectors which have an impact on our members and on the wider business community, ” said Mr Collier.

Letter to Stewart Stevenson

Media enquiries to: Kate Yuill, Policy & Communications Manager, kate.yuill@agcc.co.uk; 01224 343913