Scots transport proposal to speed decision making

Future major transport projects could be approved more quickly in Scotland following the launch of a consultation document on replacing existing powers of scrutiny.

The proposals for a new Transport & Works bill include:

n The promoter of a development conducts extensive consultation with all affected persons of the proposal and applies to Scottish ministers for an order.

n Scottish ministers commence an objection period.

n Once the objection period ceases, Scottish ministers and, if necessary, the Scottish Parliament consider general criteria in relation to the proposal.

n Scottish ministers appoint an independent reporter to consider the proposal in detail.

n Scottish ministers review the reporter’s recommendations and make a final order for parliamentary approval.

Transport minister Tavish Scott said the Scottish Executive will now work with the parliament to ensure the proposals lead to simpler, practical legislation.

“The current private bills procedure for approving these projects has proved to be tortuous and complex and has taken up a lot of MSPs’ valuable time,” he added.

The deadline for consultation responses is 19 May.