A number of major infrastructure projects from the Scottish government have been completed in the past six months, according to a series of new reports.

The reports highlight the £160 million electrification of the railway line from Glasgow to Edinburgh via Shotts, the completion of the £57.9 million Dalry Bypass, and the opening of a £77.4 million hospital in Orkney.

More than £90 million of school projects were completed and opened to pupils within the current £1.8 billion Schools for the Future Programme.

As of 30 June, 26,581 affordable homes had been built as part of the £3.3 billion affordable homes programme, according to Infrastructure Investment Plan reports which are now available online.


In addition, there has been investment for the expansion of early learning and childcare. As of July, 114 refurbishment projects, 16 extension projects and 14 new build projects had been completed, delivering an additional 2,556 early learning and childcare places for children.

And we have already invested £130 million of our city region and growth deal programme. Together with the associated investment, this programme has committed over £1.8 billion over the next 10-15 years.

Commenting on the reports, Infrastructure Secretary Michael Matheson said: "In spite of increasingly challenging economic conditions, the Scottish Government is forging on with delivering infrastructure projects that are making a real difference to people's lives – by improving on Scotland's housing, education, transport and education infrastructure.

"As a result, modern, state of the art facilities are benefiting communities across Scotland and it is important that we continue to drive forward these important projects. By the end of the next parliamentary term, our National Infrastructure Mission commitment will increase our annual infrastructure investment by 1% of current (2017) GDP, helping to protect and create jobs, and boosting economic growth across the country."

(MH/JG)