Support bridge plans MP urges

12.00.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 13th Apr 2006

Gordon Liberal Democrat MP Malcolm Bruce has urged people living in Bridge of Don and Aberdeenshire north of the River Don to register their support to Aberdeen City Council in favour of the proposed new bridge crossing the river.

Mr Bruce explained: "The City Council has advertised the new bridge proposals and will accept representations until 3 May. This is a vital link for thousands of people living north of the Don but it is also controversial. People who object to the bridge proposals will do so in numbers.

"It is equally important for those who want this bridge finally to happen to express their strong support.

"Having represented people in Bridge of Don and in Aberdeenshire along the A90 to Ellon and beyond since 1983, I know how strongly people feel in favour of the bridge. This was demonstrated at the massive public meeting held at the Exhibition Centre attended by myself and around 2500 others. It is a point regularly made forcefully on the doorsteps.

"Together with local Liberal Democrats, I have campaigned consistently for an additional crossing. Thousands of houses have been built in communities north of the River Don and we have actually lost one river crossing. It is not surprising there is a problem.

"I strongly favour public transport options and urge people to use buses where possible. However, public transport alone cannot solve the traffic problem built up over the last thirty years."

"The plans were narrowly defeated last time. This really is the last chance. I hope the plans will be strongly supported."

ENDS