Transport Minister Keith Brown has visited Aberdeen ahead of construction work being carried out on a long-awaited bypass.

According to The Scotsman, Mr Brown toured the site of the former International School of Aberdeen. It is due to be demolished to allow the construction of the £745m Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR) to begin.

The Scottish Government first unveiled its support for the 28-mile roads scheme in January 2003, when the project was estimated to cost just £120m. However, a series of delays and legal challenges means the cost soared and work is only due to start shortly.

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Mr Brown said: "With clear benefits of an expected 14,200 jobs and a £6 billion economic boost over the next 30 years, it is essential that we press ahead with this vital scheme as quickly as possible.

"The AWPR will improve journey times, reduce congestion and help open up wider markets for the regionally and nationally important economy of the north-east delivering benefits of both local and national importance.

"Demolition of the former International School of Aberdeen marks a visual sign of the very real progress made on the AWPR project in a very short space of time. Local communities and road users can now see physical work taking place to deliver this vital scheme for the North east. After years of delay, we should not underplay the need to ensure the current pace continues."

As part of the construction plans, 90% of the materials from the demolition of the school will be recycled.

(JP)