Call for urgent talks on new Tay bridge
A "full and open" consultation should be held on the effects of building work connected to the new foot and cycle bridge over the River Tay at Perth, it has been claimed.
Golfers play past the bridgeworks.
- By Alan Richardson
- Published in the Courier : 19.07.10
- Published online : 19.07.10 @ 12.21pm
Concerned by complains from golfers, anglers and residents, councillor Archie MacLellan said the authority should take stock of the current situation and ensure all opinions are heard before work continues.
The £2.5 million bridge, from the North Inch to Isla Road, is to be built after local transport group, TACTRAN, won Lottery funding.
Exploratory drilling began recently and furious golfers have stated they are being denied full access and have had to abandon competitions because the 15th green and fairway are out of use.
Mr MacLellan expressed his sympathy, saying, "While it is right that walkers and cyclists are encouraged and supported, this cannot be to the detriment of others who are involved in equally healthy outdoor pursuits — including anglers and young mothers with children who make full use of the North Inch at various times."
There have been doubts raised about the viability of the project, which was originally backed on the understanding it was to be funded by the Lottery award and other grants.
The authority has since had to pledge hundreds of thousands of pounds to meet a shortfall, amidst the tightest public finance squeeze in recent memory.
Many councillors are privately dismayed funds could be diverted to what they view as a non-essential project.
Mr MacLellan said, "Assuming that the severe budgetary cuts facing the council do not affect the bridge — and this cannot be ruled out — it is necessary to have full consultation to find a solution that can satisfy all.
"Comment through the planning process after final plans are drawn up is not sufficient for a development of this magnitude and I have asked the council to arrange a full open consultation meeting for all the affected parties to be called once options for the bridge are available.
"Anything less is completely unacceptable."
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