M74 completion will boost continuing regeneration of Renfrewshire

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Renfrewshire Council leader Derek Mackay has spoken of the boost to "the continuing regeneration of Renfrewshire" from the completion of the M74 motorway extension.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held in Glasgow on Wednesday 28 May to mark the start of the M74 completion project.

The Scottish Government, Glasgow, Renfrewshire and South Lanarkshire councils are to spend £445 million to complete the M74, due to open in 2011.

Councillor Mackay said: "This major project will boost the continuing regeneration of Renfrewshire. We're already seeing increased interest in investing here linked to transport improvements."

"Our business community will see a reduction in transport times and this project will also improve the competitive position of Glasgow Airport. This is
good news for Renfrewshire, and good news for the regional and national economy."

First Minister Alex Salmond spoke at the ceremony of the "significant economic and social benefits to businesses, communities and industry in the West of Scotland and the country as a whole" that the project will bring.

The First Minister said: "Completion of the vital missing link in the M74 will reduce congestion and provide strategic transport links for industry in the West of Scotland. Better access for customers and suppliers will benefit thousands of businesses in the surrounding areas."

"Shorter journey times on local roads will help communities as well as business, and will greatly help preparation and hosting of Glasgow's 2014 Games."

"Regeneration will be a direct result of the completion of the M74, helping to tackle pockets of unemployment through development of prime sites along the Clyde Corridor and areas in Glasgow's east end and south side such as Rutherglen and Cambuslang."

"The Scottish Government's partnership with Glasgow City Council, South Lanarkshire and Renfrewshire Council has enabled the investment in the M74 – a vital piece of infrastructure which will open new routes, new opportunities not only for the West of Scotland but for Scotland as a whole."

Press release: Wednesday 28 May 2008