The minister spoke during a visit to Edinburgh Waverley

Transport Scotland, which officially began operating on 1 January, will help to deliver the Scottish Executive's major infrastructure projects.

It will also oversee investment in the Scottish rail network.

Tavish Scott said the agency will have a pivotal role in delivering on the executive's commitments.

Mr Scott said redevelopment of Waverley Station in Edinburgh was an example of the investment in transport.

Speaking during a visit to the station with Transport Scotland Chief Executive Malcolm Reed, Mr Scott said: "With a capital investment programme of �3bn planned over the next decade, it is vital that we are able to deliver both our rail and road improvements on time and on budget," he said.

'Ambitious and challenging'

"Transport Scotland, along with our transport industry partners, will help us deliver this."

Mr Reed said he was confident the agency could deliver on the executive's "ambitious and challenging" programme.

He vowed that the agency would work closely with groups involved in delivering transport services.

By working together and investing in our road and rail networks we can build a modern transport network Malcolm Reed Transport Scotland

He said: "Improving the transport network brings huge economic benefits for businesses getting their goods to market and by connecting people with greater employment and education opportunities.

"By working together and investing in our road and rail networks we can build a modern transport network for Scotland."

The redevelopment of Waverley Station will see two new platforms, extensive track remodelling allowing four extra trains per hour, and longer commuter train platforms.