John Swinney said the SNP will take on responsibility for the Clyde Tunnel after the election.
Campaigning in Glasgow, he will “offer to take on responsibility for the maintenance of the Clyde Tunnel, which the SNP said will free around £1 million of cost to the council and meaning there is no need for congestion charges to fund maintenance.
Ricky Bell, City Treasurer, has floated the idea of a toll charge for non-residents to pay for the upkeep of the tunnel.
It attracted wide condemnation with opponents stating it was unfair to people in other areas who had to use it to get to work or hospital appointments.
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Swinney said the Scottish Government will take over the costs of the tunnel.
The First Minister is campaigning in Glasgow today, announcing new policies that he said will benefit Glasgow and its people.
He said the SNP will set up an urban development corporation for Glasgow city centre, complementing the work of the Clyde Gateway in the east end and driving growth.Support the next stages of the feasibility work on the Clyde Metro proposal,
Provide support to the city to complete the refurbishment of the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens, and ensuring they are reopened to the public.
And open two additional GP walk-in centres in the North-west and Southside of the city, in addition to the site already planned for Cardonald.
Swinney said: “Glasgow is one of Scotland’s greatest economic assets – a cosmopolitan, thriving city, blessed with outstanding strengths and huge potential.
“I want to build on that potential and make sure Glasgow is everything it can be. That is why I will establish an urban regeneration company for Glasgow to revitalise the areas of the city centre that need it and drive economic growth.
“And I will take action on a site which holds a special place in the heart of many Glaswegians, providing support the city needs to complete the refurbishment of the People’s Palace and Winter Gardens and get them reopened to the public again.
“The plans I am setting out today honour Glasgow’s past and focus on the city’s future.
“Because unlike others who want to talk this great city down, I am clear that Glasgow’s best days are ahead of it.
“The SNP is always on Glasgow’s side – and as First Minister I will do everything I can to make Glasgow flourish.”
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