M74 Completion Project Signed and Sealed

The construction of the M74 Completion project is now only a few weeks away after the contract to build it was officially awarded.

Transport Scotland’s agent for the scheme Glasgow City Council has formally let the £445m construction contract to Interlink M74 Joint Venture.

Work will begin in May on the project which will significantly reduce congestion on the busiest stretch of the M8 through Glasgow and provide a major economic boost to the west of Scotland.

Welcoming the contract award, Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson said:

"This Government is committed to completing the M74 and I am delighted to see the tendering process reach its conclusion with the award of this contract.

"This extension will complete an important link in Scotland’s motorway network and reduce congestion on the busy M8 through Glasgow, providing links to regeneration projects in the city’s east end and bringing much-needed new investment to help capture long term benefits from the Commonwealth Games in 2014."

The project, funded by Transport Scotland with contributions from Glasgow City Council, South Lanarkshire Council and Renfrewshire Council, will grow Scotland's economy by improving transport links in the west of Scotland and bring new jobs, particularly along the route but also across the west of Scotland.

Councillor Steven Purcell, Leader of Glasgow City Council, said:

"This is another vital step along the way in the regeneration of Glasgow. The completion of the M74 will bring jobs to Glasgow, reduce congestion and lessen journey times for commuters, and mean that the city's transport infrastructure will be ready for the 2014 Commonwealth Games."

Councillor Eddie McAvoy, Leader of South Lanarkshire Council, added:

"The M74 completion is vital to the ambitious regeneration plans we have for South Lanarkshire and it is great to see the project moving forward. Modern and sustainable transport links are vital to the economy and we are proud to be part of something which will create jobs and reduce congestion on our roads."

Renfrewshire Council Leader Derek Mackay said:

"We welcome this progress on a major project which will boost the continuing regeneration of Renfrewshire by allowing goods and services to be transported more quickly and reliably. Our business community will see a reduction in transport times and this investment will also improve the competitive position of Glasgow Airport. This is good news for Renfrewshire and good news for the regional and national economy."

Work will start on the project in early May, with construction expected to last three years.

For further information see www.m74completion.com