§ Mr. David MarshallTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received about the completion of the M74 in the City of Glasgow; and if he will make a statement. [29795]
§ Mr. McLeishSince taking office, we have received 13 written representations on this subject, including correspondence from my hon. Friend. In addition, I am aware that, subsequent to the publication of The856W Strathclyde Regional Council (M74 West Fullarton, Kingston Bridge to Fullarton Road) Compulsory Purchase Order 1995, 37 Statutory and 4 non-statutory objections were received within the statutory period.
Although it is not a trunk road scheme, the size and importance of the M74 northern extension is such that it is appropriate to consider the scheme within the current strategic trunk roads review and the joint promoters of the scheme, the City of Glasgow and South Lanarkshire Councils, have agreed to this. Studies of aspects of the scheme, including its design and economic development function, are nearing completion and will inform the trunk roads review. If the scheme were to be taken forward as a trunk road, rather than by the present promoters, a decision on whether or not to go ahead would be informed by the findings of the roads review and would depend on a variety of factors, including the resources available and competing priorities.