John Swinney, MSP for Perthshire North, has today welcomed the update provided by the Transport Secretary on the A9 dualling project.
Speaking today [Wednesday] in the Scottish Parliament, the Transport Secretary outlined the future of the project, indicating that almost 50% of the project will be completed by 2030, rising to 85% by the end of 2033 and 100% by the end of 2035. There was also confirmation that a preferred route has been selected for the Pass of Birnam to Tay Crossing section.
Commenting, Mr Swinney said: “I am pleased that the Scottish Government has today re-affirmed its commitment to dualling the A9.
“As the Transport Secretary laid out, this hugely complex and ambitious infrastructure project will improve road safety, unlock economic opportunity and connect the Highlands to Central Scotland.
“The Transport Secretary’s statement today, along with the accompanying documentation on the Transport Scotland website, provides a clear, detailed timetable for the future of this project and I am sure this will be welcomed by road users and all stakeholders.
“I am particularly pleased that a preferred route has now been selected for the Pass of Birnam to Tay Crossing section. This is a complex section of the dualling process, and I am very grateful to the local community for their continued engagement in this process. It is clear that the Scottish Government has listened carefully to the views of the local community, as evidenced by the decision to include a roundabout at Dunkeld and the junction layouts at The Hermitage and Dalguise. I also welcome the news that there will be a public exhibition in early 2024 to continue this engagement with the public.
“Already, my constituents are benefitting from the dualling of the A9, with the £96m Luncarty to Pass of Birnam section opening two years ago. It is vital that we continue to build upon this progress, and I will continue to engage with all stakeholders going forward.”
