The M74 completion scheme, which will open to traffic in two weeks time, is on course to be between £15 and £20 million under budget.

Infrastructure and Capital Investment Secretary Alex Neil said robust management of the project by Transport Scotland on behalf of the Scottish Government had delivered significant savings for the taxpayer.

He also praised public and private sector partners such as contractor Interlink M74 on delivering the road substantially ahead of schedule.

Mr Neil said: "The M74 Completion is the largest infrastructure project on the ground in Scotland and it's opening eight months early and between £15m and £20m under budget.

"This will mean significant savings for Scottish taxpayers and that drivers will be able to enjoy the benefits of this crucial piece of infrastructure several months ahead of schedule.

"This is clear evidence of our robust and effective management of major projects such as this. Our record of investment in transport infrastructure over the past four years has provided a much needed boost for the construction sector and supported tens of thousands of jobs.

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"We have worked closely and, effectively with Glasgow City, South Lanarkshire and Renfrewshire Councils - testament to what can be achieved when a well-planned project is executed through strong collaborative partnerships.

"When it opens on June 28, the new route will provide improved access to economic, employment and education opportunities for the people of Scotland. It will also bring enormous potential for further urban regeneration programmes in the west of Scotland, many of which are already in development."

Transport Minister Keith Brown said: "As with the opening of any new road, it is important that drivers are informed of any changes the new motorway could make to their journeys. With two weeks to go until the route opens to traffic, drivers should visit the website www.m74completion.com to familiarise themselves with the traffic arrangements, drive with care and pay close attention to road signs in the run up to the opening and once the new road opens.

"Along with the M80 Stepps to Haggs scheme, which is due for completion in the Autumn, this Government is investing in the country's transport infrastructure and providing robust project management to achieve best value for the public purse. We have recently awarded contracts to build the Forth Replacement Crossing which have also come in significantly under original estimates - more evidence that this Government is not only delivering for Scotland, but finding the very best value for Scotland's taxpayers."

David Welsh Project Director for Interlink M74 JV, a joint venture between Morrison Construction, Balfour Beatty, Morgan Sindall and Sir Robert McAlpine, four of the countries leading civil engineering contractors, stated: "It has been very satisfying working closely with both Transport Scotland and Glasgow City Council delivering a very visible and demanding project whilst retaining a strong spirit of partnership and collaboration. In particular we have appreciated the continuing support and engagement of businesses and communities local to the project."

(GK)