A £5.5m construction contract to improve the safety and efficiency of a key route linking the west coast ports to the rest of Scotland has been announced by Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson.

The scheme will provide dedicated safe overtaking opportunities in both directions for nearly 2 miles (1.8 miles/ 3km) between Parkend and Bennane, just to the north of Ballantrae, and is one of a number of upgrades to this vital link from the ferry ports.

RJ McLeod (Contractors) Ltd will build the Transport Scotland funded project.

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Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson said: “I am delighted to announce the selection of a contractor and the consequential start of construction on this key strategic route which links our west coast ports to the rest of Scotland.

“On completion this scheme will provide better overtaking opportunities for A77 traffic, meaning quicker and safer journeys for local communities and tourists, as well as freight traffic.

“This project will confirm to our visitors, both commercial and tourists, that Scotland is open for business – supporting long term sustainable economic growth across south west Scotland and beyond.”

This scheme is part of £60 million of planned investment along the A77 and A75, and complements £29 million already invested on these routes.

The 86 mile long A77 is a main link for south west communities and businesses, and this section of the route carries up to 3000 vehicles a day. Work is due to start on site next month, with completion anticipated in spring of 2011.

(GK/BMcC)