Expansion to begin thanks to £35m deal

Contractor for first stage of project confirmed by council

Perth and Kinross Council chiefs have struck a £35 million deal for a massive expansion of Scotland’s newest city.

Balfour Beatty has been awarded the contract for the first phase of a major new congestion-busting traffic plan for Perth.

The long-awaited new A9/A85 junction and link road to Bertha Park will unlock development land to the west of the city.

Around 100 construction jobs will be created during the three-year lifespan of the work, including several apprenticeship opportunities.

Construction crews are expected to arrive on site late next month.

The scheme represents the first stage for the Perth Transport Futures project, which aims to improve air quality in the city centre, combat congestion problems and provide vital new roads to support economic growth.

The scheme involves the controversial creation of a new road which runs past Perth Crematorium. Hundreds of people objected to the scheme, claiming it impacted on woodland where ashes of loved ones have been scattered.

Councillor John Kellas, who is convener of the council’s enterprise and infrastructure committee, said: “Residents, visitors and businesses in and around the city will all benefit from this scheme, with the improved junction and new link road allowing a better flow of both local and through traffic, as well as improvements to the air quality in the city centre.”

The Perth Transport Futures Project has four phases and includes the development of the Cross Tay Link Road.

As well as the new junction and Bertha Park link road, phase one will involve a roundabout on Ruthvenfield Road, a bridge over the River Almond and a footbridge over the A9 linking Tulloch to the Inveralmond Industrial Estate.

Councillor John Kellas says residents, visitors and businesses will all benefit from the Perth Transport Futures Project.