Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson has announced a multimillion pound boost for road users of the A96 with the appointment of a contractor for the Fochabers to Mosstodloch scheme.

Transport Scotland will be awarding the £31.5 million contract to Morrison Construction to build a new 5km stretch of all-purpose single carriageway on the main road between Aberdeen and Inverness.

This project, combined with a raft of other work on the A96, reinforces the Scottish Government’s commitment to the route.

Transport Minister, Stewart Stevenson said: "The award of the A96 Fochabers to Mosstodloch contract is yet another example of our continuing investment in Scotland's transport infrastructure and is helping the hard pressed construction sector through challenging economic times.


"The A96 is an essential route in Scotland's trunk road network and this stretch of new road will improve links for communities locally and between Inverness and Aberdeen, bringing economic benefits across the north.

"I'm delighted to announce the contract award which will soon be moving to construction.

"Our commitment to improved links across Scotland is clear and the undoubted benefits to be reaped will be felt across the north by communities and businesses alike."

Work also continues with partners on other proposals for the A96 and the Minister added: "The Scottish Government is determined to improve links along the length of the A96.

"We are currently working with Highland Council reviewing proposals for dualling the A96 Inverness to Nairn, a Nairn bypass, and a bypass on the east of Inverness linking the A9 to the A96.

"Work is also progressing well with Moray Council to review ways of addressing congestion in and around Elgin.

"We are determined to deliver improvements on the A96 and are working tirelessly to provide improved links on this vital artery," he said.

(GK/BMcc)