LONG-AWAITED plans to build a bridge connecting Yoker and Renfrew have been announced by Renfrewshire Council.

The £78 million project is part of a wider development to increase wealth, investment and growth across the water.

Still in the early stages, there has been no mention of when the crossing would be built or who would construct it.

The bridge would sit around half way between the Erskine Bridge four miles west and the Clyde Tunnel, three miles into Glasgow.

The project is part of the Glasgow and Clyde Valley City Deal which will also includes the jobs-boosting development of the airport investment zone and a new surface link between Glasgow City Centre and the airport.

Yoker councillor Graeme Hendry said: “I look forward to seeing the detailed proposals on the bridge and consulting with my constituents on it. Some constituents have contacted me already saying they are very keen on it as they believe it will help open up access to the new Southern General, Braehead and job opportunities in Hillington and Renfrew. Others have been in touch very concerned around the potential increase in traffic and pollution.

“There is no doubt that this part of Dumbarton Road already has major traffic issues so I would like to see how they will be resolved.

“However, I do believe there could be significant access and economic improvements for the area. As ever the devil is in the detail so I hope we can move beyond vague ideas and press releases to discuss a substantial proposal soon.”