YOUR VIEWS: What cost now to fully dual the A9?

I was surprised to read that Kate Forbes gave such unqualified support for the A9 dualling programme.

Some years ago the project was costed at £3 billion pounds. According to recent reports only about 15 per cent of that figure had so far been borrowed.

And since Liz Truss trashed the trust of the markets when she was Prime Minister the cost of the necessary borrowing must have rocketed.

So what’s the current estimated price? Three and a half? four billion? More? Is this the best way to spend limited resources?

Of course safety is a concern but is greater enforcement of speed restrictions not more immediately effective.

The Strathy proposal of roadside rest stops seems eminently sensible. Such pull ins, providing facilities for car and lorry drivers are long overdue.

‘Aires’ adjacent to communities could readily make available stops for fast intercity buses providing alternatives to the car, trying to decrease emissions – are these not supposedly rather important policy aims?

Interestingly, the Welsh Government is rowing back from its previous road building plans citing the need to address climate change and its scepticism regarding the view that upgrading roads makes for greater safety.

Better roads bring in more traffic, and more traffic problems when the better road runs out.

Yes we’ll be better able to get past Badenoch but will that not lead to increased congestion at already congested Inverness?

The A9 north of Tore – should that not also be dualled? What about the NC500? Okay, the campaign is to protect lives.

But do we not need a new Raigmore Hospital, better pay and conditions for carers and NHS staff, more local hospital beds, less potholes, smoother pavements, better sports facilities?

Would spending in these and many other areas not also save lives. There’s only so much money for public projects.

Is the partial improvement of the A9 really the highest priority ?

Dick Webster

Campbell Crescent

Kingussie.

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‘Evil social media has taken its toll’

Although surprised and saddened by Nicola Sturgeon’s resignation, I remain resolute in my belief that renewed unity of purpose for independence must be continued.

As Scotland’s longest serving First Minister, she dealt with five Tory Prime Ministers and is without doubt, recognised as the pre-eminent political leader of her generation.

She also continued to keep Scotland on the world map.

Irrespective of all other issues, the relentless evil of social media has taken its toll on Nicola, much like her New Zealand counterpart Jacinda Ardern.

In fact the troubled start to the 21st Century has been marred by an endless vindictive personalised hatred, directed at all prominent politicians.

However, in the near future Nicola’s legacy will be assured, when Scotland regains her nationhood within Europe and around the world.

Grant Frazer

Newtonmore.

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Kate Forbes has proved she is an honest politician

Re the online Strathy article headlined ‘Drew Hendry ends his support for Kate Forbes’ SNP leadership bid’.

At last here is an honest politician.

Well done, Kate, it’s only the politicians who can’t be honest that will withdraw their support.

Jan Gray

Nethy Bridge.

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Persecution over religious belief is also big violation

I am writing in response to the opinion piece ran online by the Strathspey and Badenoch Herald earlier this week headed ‘LGBT+ rights are under threat in Scotland – and Kate Forbes’ recent headlines do nothing to re-assure the community’.

There are nine Protected Characteristics – religious belief is one of them.

The others are age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, sex and sexual orientation.

It is not acceptable to harass, intimidate or vilify someone due to their religious belief any more than than it is to harass, intimidate or vilify someone on account of their race or sexuality.

Kate Forbes has chosen to respond to direct questions on her religious beliefs with complete honesty when questioned in the SNP leadership race and that should be commended.

Mel Borthwaite

Aberdeen.

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