Known collectively as the Cross Tay Link Road project, Destiny Bridge and the New Kingsway are key elements of the Perth Transport Futures infrastructure project linking the A9, the A93 and the A94 by providing a crossing over the River Tay.

The project includes a 12km active travel path network, connecting the neighbouring communities with Perth city centre and providing alternatives to vehicular traffic. The path network also connects a central hub at a new Park-and-Choose area, and incorporates a green bridge to separate active travel users and wildlife from the road.

Together, the active travel path network and improved transport infrastructure will deliver on the project’s key priorities of reducing congestion and improving air quality in Perth city centre. Scottish Government, through Transport Scotland, has provided a £40 million funding contribution to Perth and Kinross Council.

First Minister John Swinney led a ceremony with Perth and Kinross Council leader Grant Laing and local athletics champion Eilidh Doyle.

Mr Swinney said: “The completion of the New Kingsway and Destiny Bridge is a significant milestone for Perth, and I have no doubt that it will be transformative for the area and bring enormous benefits to all who use it.

“Reducing traffic volumes in the city centre will make journey times quicker, while also helping to reduce pollution, improve air quality, and free up road space for improved public transport.

“Our £40m investment in the New Kingsway and Destiny Bridge is in addition to the £150m Scottish Government has already committed to the Tay Cities Region Deal, which is expected to create 6,000 jobs and lever a further £400m of investment into the region.

“This project showcases exactly how, with the right investment and strong partnerships, we will continue to deliver on my priorities of growing the economy, improving public services and protecting the planet.”

Enabling works on the project commenced in early 2022 following the appointment of main contractor, BAM UK & Ireland. As well as delivering the £150m project on time and on budget, the project team has also generated over £51m of social and economic value within the local area.

Councillor Grant Laing, Perth and Kinross Council leader, said: “As the largest infrastructure project ever undertaken by Perth and Kinross Council, the opening of Destiny Bridge and the New Kingsway marks a momentous achievement for all involved.

“I would like to offer thanks to the project team for their hard work and dedication; and to residents, particularly those in Stormontfield, Scone and Luncarty, for their patience and understanding during the build.”

Councillor Laing added: “As well as positively impacting on the environment and economy, during construction the project has created job opportunities and tackled local skills shortages through a robust outreach and training programme. 

“It has also assisted in, and generated, several legacy projects including the Denmarkfield Allotments and Community Orchards, the new active travel path network and the Community Artwork project, all of which will bring enjoyment and health benefits for our Perth and Kinross residents for many years to come.”