Murdo Fraser MSP has said he shares people’s concerns that no date has been given by the SNP Government for the dualling of the A9 from Birnam to Jubilee Bridge.
The Scottish Conservative politician says the delay in confirming a definite timescale for the works to be announced is something that many of his constituents have contacted him about.
Mr Fraser received written Parliamentary answers from Transport Secretary Graeme Dey, which states that there will be short-term road improvements on the A9/A822/A923 junction near Dunkeld, planned for late autumn/winter. However, Mr Dey didn’t provide an indication of when work will start on the dualling of the A9 stretch between Birnam and the Jubilee Bridge.
Mr Fraser had submitted written questions on both issues.
Commenting, Mr Fraser, who represents the Mid Scotland and Fife region, said: “While my constituents will welcome news of road resurfacing at the A9/A822/A923 junction and the installation of illuminated bollards in this area, I’m sure local residents will share my concerns that the SNP Government hasn’t provided a date for work to start on the A9 dualling between Birnam and the Jubilee Bridge.
“We had the opening of the dualling stretch of the A9 between Luncarty and the Pass of Birnam in August, so people are keen to hear news of a definite timetable for the Birnam to Jubilee Bridge stage – they have been waiting a long time to hear about this.
“In his written answers to me, the Transport Secretary said that a market consultation exercise had taken place regarding the Birnam to Jubilee Bridge dualling project, but it would bring great relief to local residents to hear about an actual timescale of work.”
And Councillor Anne Jarvis, who represents the Strathtay ward, added: “The A9/A822/A923 staggered junction is very busy. People travelling via the A822 from Dunkeld to Trochry and Amulree have two dangerous manoeuvres to make. Lighted bollards at the turning into Dunkeld would make it safer turning right from the A9 but are lighted bollards going to be installed at the A822/A9 junction?
“In the interests of safety, this should happen now and not have to wait till the A9 dualling is completed.”