Question reference: S5W-34813
- Asked by: Mike Rumbles, MSP for North East Scotland, Scottish Liberal Democrats
- Date lodged: 27 January 2021
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Current status: Answered by Michael Matheson on 11 February 2021
Question
To ask the Scottish Government what its response is to reported concerns by the Deputy Leader of Aberdeenshire Council regarding the window of time allowed for the consultation on the A96 Huntly to Aberdeen dualling project, before it is completed on 15 February 2021.
Answer
As with all Transport Scotland’s major infrastructure projects, consultation is an integral part of the design process for the A96 Dualling East of Huntly to Aberdeen scheme.
Recognising the impact of the festive period and the COVID-19 restrictions, we had already extended the usual feedback period by two weeks to eight weeks. This is a non-statutory consultation, and forms part of our rolling programme of regular engagement aimed at providing greater transparency about the decision making process associated with project route selection. Consequently there is no minimum duration required.
However, in recognition of the widespread interest in this scheme and in light of the ongoing restrictions and feedback received, we have extended the consultation period for a further three weeks till 08 March 2021, to let the public have their say on the preferred option.
As we continue to develop the preferred option in greater detail, individuals, communities and businesses affected by the work will be kept fully informed and their feedback carefully considered.