Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson signalled the start of works for the A96 Fochabers and Mosstodloch scheme by turning the first sod today.

Work on the scheme, which is being carried out by Morrison Construction, will see a new 5km stretch of all-purpose single carriageway on the main road between Aberdeen and Inverness.

The £31.5 million scheme, combined with a host of other works on the A96, reinforces the Scottish Government's commitment to the route.

Transport Minister, Stewart Stevenson said: "The A96 Fochabers and Mosstodloch road scheme is another example of our continuing investment in Scotland's transport infrastructure. This is an essential route in Scotland's trunk road network, and I'm delighted to personally kick off construction on this vital project.

"When complete, the stretch of new road will improve transport links along the length of this route, help tackle congestion in and around Fochabers and Mosstodloch, as well as bring economic benefits for businesses and communities right across the north."

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The minister noted the government's commitment to the A96.

He continued: "In recent weeks we have announced a package of improvements for delivery this financial year which will ease congestion and improve journey times through Elgin.

"We are also working with our partners at Highland Council reviewing proposals for dualling the A96 between Inverness and Nairn, a Nairn bypass, and a link between the A9 and A96 to the east of Inverness to inform their work on the Highland Wide Local Development Plan."

Construction works for the scheme will include:

• the construction of approximately 5km of all-purpose single carriageway road
• roundabouts to provide local access to both towns, the Baxters factory and the A98 road to Fraserburgh
• pedestrian and cycle links will be improved with a number of underpasses constructed within the scheme to provide safe crossing points for school pupils travelling from Mosstodloch to the primary and high schools in Fochabers
• improved overtaking opportunities in both directions of travel
• the installation of CCTV cameras near Inchberry Road will be linked to the local police control room

"We look forward to working closely with Transport Scotland, the local community and all interested parties to ensure the success of the project."

(GK/BMcC)