Business survey highlights problems
Transport infrastructure ‘woefully inadequate’
Published:
More than 70% of Scottish firms believe the state of the country’s transport infrastructure does not meet their needs, a business survey has found.
In excess of one-half of the companies questioned north of the border complained road congestion was a significant problem.
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) survey also revealed that a majority of Scottish firms favoured the creation of a new high-speed rail link across the border to London and other major cities.
Scottish Chambers of Commerce chief executive Liz Cameron said: “This UK-wide survey helps to put in context the particular transport issues facing Scotland.
“Rail transport is a growing necessity for many Scottish businesses and high-speed rail would deliver over £7billion of economic benefits within Scotland.”
The importance of air-transport links from Scotland was also highlighted by the survey, with 58% of firms north of the border saying services to Heathrow were important to their businesses.
Mrs Cameron said the survey findings showed the clear need for further investment at Heathrow to secure slots for services between Scotland and London.
The Scottish Government’s long-awaited strategic transport projects review is due to be unveiled this month and Mrs Cameron said: “This cannot arrive too soon for our members’ needs.”
Highlighting an urgent need for a revision of transport policy and for the UK Government to bring forward public spending proposals on infrastructure projects, the BCC’s survey report said Britain’s antiquated transport infrastructure – largely built around Victorian foundations – was failing.
The economy was suffering as a result, the organisation said, adding: “The BCC does not believe government attempts to address failings in the transport system are translating into the improvements that businesses need to see.
“The reputation of the UK as an accessible nation and a good place to do business is being undermined by a woefully inadequate transport system.”
