ENVIRONMENTAL groups have spoken out about the implications the Transport Review will have on a greener Scotland.

ENVIRONMENTAL groups have spoken out about the implications the Transport Review will have on a greener Scotland.

Reacting to the Scottish Government's 10-year investment plan for future road and rail projects, leading campaigners warned that the government was in danger of compromising its commitment to climate change.

Corinne Evans, head of campaigns for Friends of the Earth Scotland, said she was not surprised by the report.

"Essentially, we think the original Forth crossing is repairable," she said. "The fact that it will remain open for public transport, cyclists and pedestrians strengthens that argument.

"We wanted more investment in public transport systems and investment in services for pedestrians and cyclists. Pumping millions into road expansion does nothing for these people, not only in terms of helping the environment, but also in promoting a healthier lifestyle through healthy travel options.

"Given last week's commitment to climate change by the Scottish Government, we are concerned that a plan to invest in roads and rail systems will mean that the pledge to reduce emissions by up to 80% by 2050 will not be met."

Ms Evans said Friends of the Earth would look at the review in depth and continue to monitor Transport Scotland's plans.

"We are disappointed that the plans are skewed towards road expansion and we would have liked to have seen a national programme investing in the more sustainable methods of transport," she said. "We will be watching the Forth crossing project very closely and we will continue are campaigns with regard to this project."

Last week, the Scottish Government published the Climate Change (Scotland) Bill. It created a long-term framework for current and future administrations in Scotland to ensure a reduction in Scottish emissions by 80% by 2050. Environmentalists feel that yesterday's announcement may jeopardise that target.

Dr Richard Dixon, director of WWF Scotland, said the government was going in the wrong direction in terms of sticking to the proposals outlined in the Climate Change Bill.

"There were no great surprises outlined in this report," he said. "For a government which has committed to reducing emissions significantly, plans for the future which contain no provision for zero-carbon modes of transport is a bit disappointing.

"The review doesn't consider road pricing or congestion charges and Transport Scotland have simply offered more capacity for cars on Scottish roads, which will increase emissions and put pressure on home owners and power stations to meet targets."