Inverness, Scotland – SNP MSP Fergus Ewing has expressed frustration and skepticism towards the progress of the A9 dualling project in Scotland. Following a series of fatal accidents on the A9 highway in March, Ewing has raised concerns about the delays and uncertainties surrounding the government’s commitment to the project.
The month of March saw a tragic increase in road accidents on the A9, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The incidents have left families shattered, with individuals like 60-year-old Roy Bannerman and 30-year-old James Noble losing their lives in separate crashes.
Ewing has addressed his concerns in a letter to the transport secretary Fiona Hyslop, questioning the government’s dedication to completing the A9 programme by the proposed deadline of 2035. He fears that the current approach may not prioritize the safety and infrastructure needs of the Highlands region.
The MSP highlighted the disappointment caused by broken promises in previous road construction projects, emphasizing the need for a more concrete and reliable plan for the A9 dualling. Ewing raised doubts about the effectiveness of the “caveated pledge,” which he believes may not offer the necessary guarantees for timely completion of the project.
Ewing’s criticism extends to the allocation of funds and resources for the A9 dualling initiative. He argues that the government should prioritize the project’s completion without relying on uncertain market conditions or budget constraints.
In response to Ewing’s concerns, Hyslop acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasized the government’s commitment to the ambitious plan for enhancing transportation infrastructure in the Highlands. While the 2035 deadline remains a target, uncertainties loom over the project’s timeline and funding requirements.
Ewing urges Hyslop to reconsider the conditions attached to the A9 dualling programme, advocating for a more definitive and transparent approach to ensuring the project’s success. The ongoing debate reflects the complexities and tensions surrounding infrastructure development and public safety initiatives in Scotland’s rural regions.
As discussions continue between Ewing and Hyslop, the fate of the A9 dualling project hangs in the balance, with stakeholders hoping for a resolution that prioritizes the well-being of residents and travelers in the Highlands. The challenges and uncertainties facing the initiative highlight the need for effective and accountable governance in addressing critical infrastructure projects.