January 5, 2015
Actor Kevin McKidd opposing Elgin link road
THE campaign against Elgin's proposed Western Link Road has received a new year boost thanks to Hollywood star Kevin McKidd.
During a visit to see family and friends in his hometown of Elgin, the actor met with campaigners on Wittet Drive on Saturday to discuss the issues surrounding the proposals and offering his support to the ongoing campaign.
His support was welcomed by opponents of the route, including leading campaigner James Wiseman.
Mr Wiseman said: “Kevin already knew the area well and had a great deal of knowledge about the proposal.
“Seeing the area first hand, he questioned the overriding necessity of the scheme and understood the concerns residents have about routing traffic – particularly heavy goods vehicles – through a residential area and past schools with the demolition of people’s homes.
"He also drew a telling comparison between the area where he grew up, where residential housing and parking are set back from the main A941 Lossie Road as it leaves Elgin, and these proposals which would see traffic on the doorsteps of residents of Edgar Road and Wittet Drive.”
The Western Link Road (WLR) was refused planning consent on November 3 by one vote. However, at their full council meeting on December 17, councillors voted to keep the route as a priority, which could result in a fresh planning application being submitted..
Moray Council argues that the route is necessary to improve traffic flow in Elgin and to gain better access to the south-west of the town.
Kevin McKidd spoke exclusively to the 'Northern Scot' about his views on the Western Link Road. To find out what he said, and for more pictures, see this Friday's 'Northern Scot' print edition.
SOURCE: http://www.northern-scot.co.uk/News/Actor-Kevin-McKidd-opposes-Elgin-road-05012015.htm