Inverness, Scotland – SNP MSP Fergus Ewing has expressed deep concern over the delays and uncertainties surrounding the A9 dualling project, especially after a recent spate of fatal car accidents along the route. Ewing’s frustration was evident in a letter addressed to Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop, where he questioned the Scottish Government’s commitment to the project following a series of tragic incidents in March.
The month of March proved to be particularly devastating on the A9, with three fatalities and multiple injuries in various accidents. These incidents, including the deaths of Roy Bannerman, James Noble, and a 90-year-old man, have left families grieving and communities shaken. The most recent accident involved two young girls in critical condition after a three-vehicle crash near Dalwhinnie.
Ewing raised concerns about the timeline for the A9 dualling project, pointing out that the Scottish Government’s target of completing it by 2035 may not be met. He highlighted the potential risk of the government reneging on its commitments, especially considering the track record of broken promises regarding road infrastructure projects in the past.
One of Ewing’s main issues with the current plan is the prioritization of sections of the A9 south of Drumochter for dualling, while the remaining sections in the Highlands are scheduled to be upgraded later. He criticized the inclusion of ‘market conditions’ as a factor in the project’s progress, as it introduces uncertainty about the availability of funds and the ultimate completion of the dual carriageway.
In response to Hyslop’s acknowledgment of potential challenges in meeting the 2035 deadline, Ewing called for a firmer commitment without caveats, emphasizing the ample capital resources available for the project. He urged the government to provide more transparency and reassurance to the public, given the significant financial resources allocated to infrastructure development in the region.
Despite the government’s assurance of a detailed and ambitious plan for the A9 dualling project, doubts persist regarding the timely completion and delivery of the upgraded road network. Ewing’s letter reflects a broader sentiment of skepticism and frustration among stakeholders and communities affected by the delays and uncertainties surrounding the vital infrastructure project.
As discussions continue about the future of the A9 dualling project, stakeholders, including Ewing and Hyslop, face mounting pressure to address concerns, ensure transparency, and prioritize the safety and efficiency of the road network for the benefit of all users. The outcome of these deliberations will have far-reaching implications for the Highlands region and its transportation infrastructure in the coming years.