A multi million pound project that will deliver an additional length of dual carriageway on the A9 at Crubenmore has taken a significant step forward with the publication of the tender notice.

The issue of this notice is the first stage in the procurement process for this vital road improvement scheme.

The project includes the construction of almost two miles of dual carriageway and will provide improved overtaking opportunities on the A9 to the north of Crubenmore. The works will also significantly improve traffic flow on this key route connecting central Scotland to the Highlands.

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Transport Minister, Stewart Stevenson said: "Following our announcement just last week regarding £76 million of funding to support employment and boost Scotland's economy, we have moved swiftly to deliver this key project milestone.

"The project is a further example of our commitment to dualling the A9 on a progressive basis. This investment will bring significant benefits to commercial and tourist traffic through more reliable journey times to and from the north."

The tender process is expected to be completed by Autumn 2010 and it is anticipated work can start on site soon thereafter, with an expected completion in late 2011. Some advance works may be carried out later this year.

When completed, the Scheme will support businesses, communities and tourism throughout Scotland by improving the access to and from Inverness and the Highlands, giving additional guaranteed overtaking opportunities in both directions and reducing both journey times and the number of convoy incidences.

(GK/BMcC)