Delegations from Falkirk and West Lothian Councils visited the Scottish Parliament to make their case for vital funding to improve the stretch of road which runs through both council areas.

After the meeting, officials said they were "heartened" by comments made by MSPs supporting the importance of this link.

The £18m project is seen as a strategic transport requirement at regional and national level and would link Grangemouth with the M8 and M9 corridors.

The Grangemouth freight hub is identified in the National Planning Framework as a national priority.

Councillor Linda Gow, leader of Falkirk Council, said: "We're very optimistic about the continuing support being offered at the highest levels to make this route a reality for communities in both areas. The strategic importance of this route cannot be over-emphasised in terms of the economic benefits for Falkirk, West Lothian and Scotland as a whole.

"I will now be writing to all MSPs seeking their support in ensuring the future of this ambitious and vital project."

West Lothian's executive councillor for development and transport, Martyn Day, said: "I am delighted to see progress finally being made.
"The discussions between both councils have been very positive and our case was well received by the MSPs.

"We are eager to establish a good working relationship with Falkirk Council and the Scottish Government to ensure residents in both communities benefit from a vastly-improved transport link."

MSP Cathy Peattie, who helped set up the meeting, said: "I think the Minister and his officials have taken on board the arguments that this is not just a local road safety issue – important though that is – it is also a strategic improvement that will bring economic and environmental benefits to the whole of Scotland and, as such, it should be given funding from central government.

"While there is clearly still much to do to ensure that the plans go ahead, I believe that in conjunction with other improvements around Grangemouth that are supported within the National Planning Framework, the A801 is a strong candidate for government support."

The project has planning permission from Falkirk and West Lothian Councils and the statutory purchase of land required to build the new bridge and approach roads is being concluded.

When complete the new section of road will taken a westerly course crossing the River Avon slightly upstream of the current route and will then link up with the roundabout to the east of Westfield village.