What analysis has been carried out of the projected impact of the A68 northern bypass on traffic flows.

Our consultants have constructed a traffic model based on the Transport Model for Scotland which takes into account the potential patronage of the Borders Railway. It has allowed us to predict the amount of traffic which will divert to the A68 Dalkeith Northern Bypass once Midlothian Council’s planned pedestrianisation is in place. On the basis of these traffic figures we are able to calculate the benefits which will accrue as a result of the scheme and confirm that the scheme satisfies the necessary value for money criterion of providing a positive net present value.
Further work is being done on the traffic modelling of the Edinburgh City Bypass but this is tied in with wider issues such as the Shawfair Development and the future of the Sheriffhall Roundabout. This work is on-going but, if anything, is expected to increase the traffic diverting from Dalkeith on to the new bypass, and hence its economic value.