§ Mr. McMasterTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to make available additional resources for the planting of indigenous species along the M8 corridor; and if he will make a statement.
§ Lord James Douglas-HamiltonIt is the policy of the roads directorate of the Scottish Office Industry Department to appoint landscape consultants as part of the design team on motorway and trunk road schemes to ensure that all environmental aspects are considered and that, as far as possible, the planting is harmonious with the natural character of the local area. A strategy for enhancing the landscape of the M8 corridor between Newbridge and Newhouse was prepared in 1988. The roads directorate in partnership with a wide range of interests, including the local authorities, the Central Scotland Countryside Trust and Scottish Enterprise implemented a phased annual planting programme of predominately indigenous species. It is planned to spend £160,000 in Phase V in spring 1993. Further expenditure will be determined by the outcome of the "Future Strategy for the M8" study commissioned in December 1992.
Following consultation with the Royal Fine Arts Commission for Scotland and the local district council it has been decided to significantly expand the planting programme on the M8 to the west of Glasgow at the St. James interchange scheme. Detailed proposals have yet to be finalised but it is anticipated that indigenous species will be included where these are compatible with the aims of the design philosophy. The estimated cost is £500,000 and will be funded by the roads directorate and Strathclyde regional council.