Date set for Aberdeen bypass legal challenges

The bypass is aimed at creating a fast link to the north, west and south of Aberdeen

Legal challenges which have delayed the construction of Aberdeen's controversial bypass will come to court next month, BBC Scotland has learned.

The £400m road was given the go-ahead by Scottish ministers in December 2009 following a lengthy public inquiry.

But the start of work was delayed after three separate legal objections were lodged at the Court of Session by local residents and businesses.

Opponents have criticised the cost and environmental impact of the project.

The BBC understands the legal objections will be heard on 22 February.

The bypass is aimed at creating a fast link to the north, west and south of Aberdeen.

The Aberdeen City and Shire's Strategic Development Planning Authority previously called for a swift conclusion to the legal action.

The SDPA said other improvements to the roads network were dependent on the bypass moving ahead.