A9 dualling process now nearing the end of road

Scottish Ministers have given the goahead to completing statutory procedures for four more schemes on the A9 dualling Perth to Inverness.

In Perthshire, these include just over 8km between the Tay Crossing and Ballinluig, around 6.5km between Pitlochry and Killiecrankie and almost 10km from Glen Garry to Dalwhinnie.

The work to prepare orders for these four schemes, totalling over 35km, is well under way with publication expected over the coming months.

The Scottish Government also expect public local inquiry reports to be submitted to Ministers for a further three schemes in the coming months.

Subject to positive decisions from the public local inquiry process on these three schemes, this would pave the way for completing the statutory processes for approximately 92% of the programme.

The design work for the remaining scheme between Pass of Birnam and Tay Crossing continues and it is expected the preferred option for this stretch will be shared later this year.

Transport Secretary Michael Matheson said: “This government remains committed to dualling the A9 between Perth and Inverness, one of the biggest transport infrastructure projects in Scotland’s history.

“To help inform the future delivery plans for the dualling programme, we are engaging with industry representatives to ensure that the remainder of the programme, including these four schemes, is delivered effectively and efficiently.

“This engagement will balance the considerable benefits of the programme against financial risk and any impacts on local communities. We expect this process to conclude in summer 2021.”

Deputy First Minister and Perthshire North MSP John Swinney said he has asked that local communities are consulted about the future plans. He added: “The dualling of the A9 will address the very serious safety record of the road, whilst unlocking economic potential and futureproofing one of the main roads in the country.”

Four more A9 schemes have been given the go-ahead.