Plans to put the brake on transport problems have been unveiled

It includes the introduction of a Road Works Commissioner and stiffer penalties for repair delays.

The bill also looks at provision of concessionary fare schemes and improvements in the country's public transport services.

Transport Minister Nicol Stephen told MSPs that the shake-up was "urgently needed" in Scotland.

Mr Stephen said the Transport (Scotland) Bill 2004 was aimed at ensuring growth in the economy.

He said: "The bill, together with the creation of the new transport agency, will make certain we have the right skills and the right structures to deliver."

Scotland's transport services cost tax payers �325m in 1999. By 2015, the price will be �1.4bn.

Main measures Edinburgh and Glasgow airport rail links A new Scottish Road Works Commissioner National free bus fare schemes for elderly and disabled Regional transport partnerships

Mr Stephen told MSPs that he was "determined to make certain that the biggest new transport investment for a generation makes a real impact for businesses and passengers".

He said the investment would include �3bn on capital schemes, including Glasgow and Edinburgh airport rail links.

Several closed rail lines would be reopened, the M74 extension completed and a by-pass for Aberdeen constructed.

But while Mr Stephen stressed the importance of supporting economic growth, the Scottish Greens were unimpressed.

Transport spokesman, Chris Ballance MSP, said: "This Bill will completely fail to address Scotland's transport needs - reducing traffic and tackling climate change by investing in public transport."