Number of objections as land grab bid launched ahead of A9 dualling project.

180 people lodge opposition to compulsory purchase of up to 240 roadside sites

More than 180 people have objected to a Scottish Government land grab bid aimed at paving the way for the next phase of the £3 billion A9 dualling project. Transport bosses are using compulsory purchase powers to snap up more than 240 roadside sites in Highland Perthshire. A public inquiry could be called to settle any disputes if landowners refuse to sell up. Transport Scotland said it was in negotiations with 182 objectors along the 13-mile Killiecrankie to Glen Garry stretch. A spokesman stressed that the opposition was unlikely to cause any delays to the dualling project, which is still on target for completion in 2025. It comes as the roads authority reveals another 228 sites which it needs for the five-mile Tay Crossing and Ballinluig stretch. Huge swathes of woods, scrubland and even private gardens are included in the latest Compulsory Purchase Order list. Operational railway lines and a level

This is one of the biggest transport projects in Scotland’s history, and we remain on target to meet our commitment. MICHAEL MATHESON CABINET SECRETARY

crossing near Dowally Church will also need to be bought up before work can go ahead. Residents will get the chance to view the latest proposals for the section at consultation events in Mid Atholl Hall, Ballinluig, on August 22 and 23. Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity Michael Matheson said: “Work is continuing across the A9 between Perth and Inverness to complete the dualling of the route by 2025. “This is one of the biggest transport infrastructure projects in Scotland’s history, and we remain on target to meet our commitment.” He added: “When completed, our ambitious programme will bring many benefits for road users, communities and businesses who live along or use this important route between central Scotland and the Highlands and Islands. “Road users are benefiting from the new dualled stretch between Kincraig and Dalraddy, which opened to traffic last year, and advanced works have started on the next section to be dualled between Luncarty and Pass of Birnam, with construction expected to get under way in the coming months.” Mr Matheson encouraged residents with an interest in the Tay CrossingBallinluig section to attend consultation sessions later this month. A hearing took place in June 2015 after objections to the Luncarty to Birnam phase. An agreement was eventually struck with main objector Network Rail.

How the Tay Crossing to Ballinluig section of the A9 could look after dualling work.