A major infrastructure project is underway in North Lanarkshire, as local authorities launch a public consultation on plans for a new road linking Motherwell with Ravenscraig. The Ravenscraig Access Infrastructure South (RAIS) project is central to the area’s long-term regeneration ambitions — and now residents and businesses have their chance to help shape its future.
Why This Road Matters
North Lanarkshire Council is delivering this project as part of the Glasgow Region City Deal, seeing it as a critical piece of transport and development infrastructure.
The planned road is not just about cars: it will also support public transport and active travel (walking and cycling), improving connectivity across the area.
This is closely tied to a large-scale regeneration of Ravenscraig, the former steelworks site. When complete, the development is expected to deliver 3,300 new homes, plus more than 160,000 m² of civic, community, office, retail, and employment space.
The Two Phases
The RAIS project is divided into two phases:
- Phase 1: From Windmillhill Street (in Motherwell) to Ravenscraig.
- Phase 2: Improvements along Airbles Road, including junction upgrades.
These phases combine to make transport much more efficient and accessible in a growing, evolving area.
What the Council Is Asking From the Public
The public consultation is running from 17 November to 14 December, giving the community a window to review updated design plans and give feedback.
North Lanarkshire Council has made plans available via a StoryMap, which allows people to explore revised road layouts, see where active travel routes will go, and understand how transport links are expected to evolve.
Feedback submitted will be carefully considered, and the council expects to share the outcomes of this consultation in January 2026.
If you want to comment or learn more, you can contact the project team directly on 01236 632487 or by email at nlccitydeal@northlan.gov.uk
Big Picture: More Than Just a Road
This isn’t just a transport improvement — it’s a cornerstone of economic regeneration. By improving access, the new road supports job creation, housing growth, and community development.
Moreover, the project aligns with North Lanarkshire’s wider strategic goals: better air quality, more sustainable travel, and a more liveable, connected region.
Why You Should Care (If You Live or Work Here)
Residents: This new road could make your daily commute easier, reduce traffic in residential areas, and open up new housing opportunities.
Businesses: Improved infrastructure could bring more footfall, more connectivity, and potential new customers or partners.
Future Generations: The development supports long-term sustainability and regeneration — creating a greener, more accessible place for everyone.
