Road protest eviction continues

Protesters claim the bypass will destroy the environment

The operation to remove protesters from the route of a £40m bypass under construction around Dalkeith in Midlothian has entered its final phase.

Authorities said the last of the four campsites set up by demonstrators was being cleared.

However, about 12 campaigners are still in treetop hammocks and tents, one of which has been suspended above a river.

A total of 23 protesters have been arrested since the operation to remove them from the site began last week.

It is being carried out by a specialist team from Wales under the guidance of a sheriff's officer.

'Endander wildlife'

Save Dalkeith Park members claim the road, which will link the A720 and the A68, will cut through the park and destroy the natural environment.

They fear the road will destroy a large part of Dalkeith Park - an area of more than 1,000 acres of farmland and woodland just outside Edinburgh.

They argue it is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, cyclists, anglers, horse-riders, walkers and others and that it is visited by as many as 50,000 people every year.

Protesters fear the bypass will cut the park in two and endanger the wildlife there.

However, officials said the road was designed to ease traffic congestion in Dalkeith.

The cost of the operation to remove protestors has been estimated at £100,000 a day.

Both the Scottish Socialists and the Scottish Green Party called on the executive to re-examine the route chosen for the bypass.