Concerns as update on dualling the A9/A96 is pushed back to next year amid funding 'uncertainty'
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A Scottish Government official has confirmed that the target dates for dualling the A9 and A96 will only be revealed next spring.
The government is under significant pressure, including from within its own ranks, about whether it can make the A9’s 2025 deadline or not, most think it is impossible.
Work on the A96 has not properly started but that is mired in even more doubt since the Greens, who are against the developments, joined the SNP government.
Last week in Holyrood, transport minister Jenny Gilruth again committed to the twin projects – seen as essential for the Highlands.
But today at the economy and fair work committee, during questions from Mr Halcro Johnston an official named Andy Park said there was going to be a wait.
Mr Park confirmed that the Strategic Transport Projects Review 2 is imminent and will include those projects not completed, including the A9 and A96.
But he went on to say that the delivery plan is only likely to be released next spring amid concerns about what capital investment will be available.
The human cost of delays
Mr Halcro Johnston said: “There’s now even more uncertainty than ever over delivery of the A9 and A96 dualling projects.
“Ministers won’t admit what everyone knows – that A9 dualling will not be completed by 2025 as previously promised.
“However officials were able to clarify that a proposed new delivery plan on transport projects, which would include the A9 and A96, was being delayed to the spring, primarily due to ‘uncertainty over capital budgets’.
“If communities in the Highlands and Islands are to have confidence that these projects are proceeding and likely to be delivered, then it is vital that the Scottish Government recognise they have failed to meet their timetables and set out a realistic plan for delivery now.
“Stringing people along for several months more just makes it look like they are unwilling to face up to the lack of progress and make a serious effort to turn things around.
“We should not forget the huge economic cost to the region that led to these promised upgrades, or the very real human cost in the form of accidents caused by use of roads that are no longer fit for purpose.”
Preparatory work underway
But MSP Fergus Ewing who has been particularly vocal on the issue lately says: "I am pressing the minister for a timetable setting out when the necessary works will be done and I had a positive meeting with her recently.
"I am seeking a meeting with her and the Deputy First Minister who is currently the acting Finance Secretary as well.
"It is clear that since in respect of both the A9 and the A96 we are seeing the preparatory work proceeding to the point where legal vesting of the necessary land takes place, that the commitment to dualling is now clear - and the unresolved question is when the work will be done.
"I have campaigned for clarity on this timing issue and am continuing so to do."
He added: "What people want is progress - real progress and clarity but not partisan party politicking."
