Hopes for early end to work on new roundabout to ease delays

Every effort is being made to fast-track work on a Perth roads project which has been causing traffic misery, MSP Liz Smith has been assured.

The construction of a roundabout has prompted the complete closure of one of only two routes in and out of the Inveralmond estate, leading to lengthy delays at peak periods.

Some people have reported taking 50 minutes to travel one mile to get out of the estate.

The affected section of Ruthvenfield road closed on January 15 for a scheduled 10 weeks to allow work to be carried out on a £35 million upgrade to the A9/A85 junction.

Ms Smith wrote to council chief executive Bernadette Malone, who told her teams were working towards finishing the project ahead of schedule.

“I am pleased to learn that Perth and Kinross Council is exploring all possible options for reducing delays on Ruthvenfield Road and I appreciate that there is no ‘quick fix’,” said Ms Smith.

“Traffic jams on the road have been particularly bad during rush hour and motorists are often left sitting in traffic for long periods.

“This is not good for business or workers and it’s important that every effort is made to improve congestion.

“Completing these works on time is a must and I am glad to hear that the council is pressing for an early completion date.

“Perth is expanding fast and I would hope that the council models and forecasts future delays more accurately when it comes to construction at Bertha Park and Scone.”

The hold-ups were particularly bad on Friday evening as people made their way home and shoppers headed for the retail area of Inveralmond.