Bypass 'health hazard' concerns

The bypass is aimed at easing traffic congestion

Concerns that Aberdeen's planned bypass could be a health hazard have been raised by a campaign group.

Road Sense said a study had suggested that children's lungs were particularly vulnerable to air pollution near large roads.

The bypass has already earned critics, although the road has considerable support from local businesses which believe it is vital to the economy.

The 46km bypass will cost hundreds of millions of pounds to build.

Local consultant physician Owen Dempsey, speaking in a personal capacity, said: "Given the accumulating evidence that air pollution adversely affects health, it is worrying that yet more road building is planned.

"This is a lose-lose situation for everyone."

Improve safety

The main concern is for people living within 500m of large roads.

The Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route, due to open in 2011, is among transport projects aimed to help improve road safety, reduce congestion and grow the local economy.

It is hoped the route could improve air quality in the city by reducing emissions.

Aberdeen's International School - facing demolition to allow the city's bypass to be built - has lodged a planning application to relocate.

The school is planning to move from Milltimber to a new site at Pitfodels.

The line of the planned bypass goes through the International School, which houses about 400 pupils.

The school has submitted an application to Aberdeen City Council which would see the Fox Lane Garden Centre moving from Pitfodels.