Using low emission vehicles in major roads projects is a key example of how public sector procurement can support the SNP Government’s ambition to phase out the need for new petrol and diesel cars by 2032.
For the first time, Transport Scotland has stipulated the use of a number of electric and low-emission vehicles by its site monitoring team on a major road construction contract bringing benefits to the environment while lowering fuel costs for contractors and public sector fleets.
Following a visit to the A737 Dalry Bypass construction site, Minister for Transport and the Islands, Humza Yousaf MSP provided a video message and undertook a trip in one of the site’s low-emission vehicles and said:
“I am delighted to see the continued progress on the Dalry Bypass with work clearly visible across the route. This is a key improvement to the road network in the southwest of Scotland and it is encouraging to see the use of electric and low-emission vehicles here on site.
“We have committed to phase out the need for new petrol and diesel cars by 2032 and we continue our efforts to transform public sector fleets and rollout the use of electric and low-emission vehicles where possible on future road construction projects.”
The A737 Dalry Bypass is being constructed by Contractor Farrans Roadbridge Joint Venture and will deliver improved economic and employment opportunities through more reliable journey times for motorists and businesses along the length of the A737. In addition, the Dalry Bypass will help separate local and strategic traffic, leading to improved safety for both rural road users and communities. Completion is expected by the end of 2019.
Kenneth Gibson MSP added:
“I am delighted at the completion of the Blair Overbridge and commend Farrans Roadbridge on their level of professionalism and community engagement while they construct the Dalry Bypass. By keeping local residents informed, Community Engagement Officer Angela Newlands has minimised the inconvenience that came with the temporary closure of Blair Road and people appreciate that.
“The Transport Minister is keen to make electric vehicles as appealing and accessible as possible in Scotland. Only a few weeks ago he responded positively to my request to explore options to equip as many public service buildings as possible with charging points.
“The SNP Scottish Government always aims to lead by example and the use of electric vehicles by Transport Scotland attests to our innovative and forward-looking approach to sustainable transport.”
ENDS
