THE MAIN COMMUNICATIONS NETWORK WITHIN THE NORTH EAST AND BEYOND

5.5 Future development will be focused on the main settlements that are well served by public transport, although proposals that support the local economy of all communities will be identified in local plans. Efficient communications links between settlements (roads and telecommunications as well as public transport) are vital to maintain accessibility within the North East and to other places. Past economic benefits have not spread in equal measure to all parts of the area, partly because of inadequacies in the transport network. Remoteness also means that some communities have missed out in the provision of new services and facilities.

5.6 The plan provides the framework for improvements to the main road network such as the A90, A96 and A947. However the outcome of such improvements must not run counter to the need to reduce travel especially by car. Justification for improvements must be based on issues such as road safety, improving access for buses and freight vehicles and making an overall positive contribution to the aim of a modern transport system. A proposed road around the western and northern side of Aberdeen (which has become known as the western peripheral route) is seen as an important component of the modern transport system. It will make northern areas more accessible from the south and enable appropriate transport measures to be introduced within Aberdeen. These include more bus priorities, traffic calming and pedestrian priority measures especially in the city centre. The western peripheral route will also link together park and ride sites to increase the choice of services available. The introduction of a Local Rail Service also has the potential to improve the links between some main settlements, especially to Aberdeen. Bus services and ‘inter-urban’ park and ride provide important rural-urban routes linking many settlements.

5.7 Efficient transport links with the rest of the UK, Europe and the world are vital to sustain a competitive economy. Aberdeen airport and the harbours in the North East are important components in ensuring these links. They are also vital channels for people and equipment needed to serve offshore North Sea oil and gas facilities. Land-side passenger and freight access to these important transport gateways or ‘nodes’ must be maintained and enhanced.

5.8 The plan seeks to increase the proportion of long distance movement of freight and people by more sustainable forms of transport such as sea and rail, and pipeline for products such as oil and gas. However, it recognises that many areas are remote from rail and sea facilities and that most freight journeys are local to the North East and so will continue to be road based. Hauliers provide a vital function in terms of the economy of the North East. Unfortunately many must face the burden of congestion in or around Aberdeen and the western peripheral route would help them bring greater economic benefits to the wider economy. Many villages also lie on roads which are environmentally inappropriate, feel unsafe and require constant maintenance as a result of heavy use by lorries.

5.9 Local authorities should continue to press the Scottish Executive, Strategic Rail Authority and other appropriate bodies for improvements in and outwith the plan area so that longer distance freight and passenger traffic may become easier, less costly and more convenient to move by sea and rail whenever possible. Local authorities will also encourage improvements in air services.