Lib-Dem leaders call on Holyrood to fund compensation

That’s the view of Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie (pictured).

The mid Scotland and Fife representative called on the Scottish Government to create the cash pot as transport minister Derek Mackay announced the bridge was to re-open to HGVs.

Mr Rennie said: “It is good the bridge is finally reopening to HGVs but the cost to business has been high.

“The Scottish Government must set up a compensation fund for business and promote it directly to the businesses that have lost out.

“The closure of the bridge was a result of government decisions so it would not be fair for business to pay the price.

“I have called for this fund to be set up repeatedly but the government has ignored those pleas. The SNP government needs to act now.”

A Scottish Government spokesman said: “Last weekend’s reopening – which was well ahead of the revised schedule – has been widely welcomed by businesses.

“We did all we could to assist the HGV community on an operational level.

“We appreciate this has been a challenging period for those affected.

“There is ongoing dialogue with the industry and business leaders. Our officials have engaged with them throughout this process and will continue to do so.”