The new road will save lives and it will be a big boost for the local economy

John Home Robertson MSP

The East Lothian scheme, covering 13.8km of the A1, will include a new expressway between Haddington East and Thistly Cross.

There will also be improvements beyond that stretch of the road to create guaranteed passing areas.

The existing road will provide access to East Linton and other communities.

"I am very conscious that in East Lothian and Eaglesham many people will welcome the go-ahead for these projects," said Ms Boyack.

"Removing so much through traffic, in particular heavy lorries, will create a better living environment for those living along the existing routes.

"This is also good news for business in the east of Scotland.

Sarah Boyack announced the go-ahead

"East Lothian Council, business interests, community councils and individuals have long campaigned to upgrade the A1, stressing the benefits which it will bring both locally and nationally."

Ms Boyack said she had cleared the way for the improvements on the trunk road - which has been blamed for scores of accidents over the years - to start as early as next year.

East Lothian MSP John Home Robertson said it had been a long hard battle.

"This is a great day for East Lothian; the new road will save lives and it will be a big boost for the local economy," he said.

On the new Glasgow route, Ms Boyack said: "The GSO will provide a major link between Ayrshire and Lanarkshire, benefiting the communities of Clarkston and Busby as well as bypassing Eaglesham.

"The resulting improved air quality and other environmental benefits are good news for local communities."