The completion of a £5.5m construction scheme will significantly improve safety on a key Ayrshire route said Transport Minister Keith Brown today.

The A77 Parkend – Bennane scheme, now open to traffic, provides dedicated overtaking opportunities in both directions across almost 2 miles (1.8 miles/ 3km), just north of Ballantrae.

The Minister visited the site as one of a number of engagements in South Ayrshire, also meeting with Adam Ingram, MSP, at Maybole to discuss the bypass.

Transport Minister Keith Brown said: “I am pleased to see the completion of these works on this key route, which links our west coast ports to the rest of Scotland, and is a clear example of our commitment to the A77.

-- Advertisement --

“Through this investment and these improved overtaking opportunities, we are ensuring more reliable and safer journeys for local communities and tourists, as well as heavy goods traffic.

“This supports long term sustainable economic growth across south west Scotland and beyond.

“We also recognise the importance of the Maybole Bypass to both Maybole residents and businesses as well as the wider links to the Loch Ryan Ports and will look for opportunities to progress it when funding becomes available.”

The A77 links the west coast ports to the rest of Scotland and this project is one of a number of upgrades on this key route.

The contract to build this Transport Scotland funded project was awarded to RJ McLeod (Contractors) Ltd.

This scheme is part of £60 million of planned investment along the A77 and A75, and complements £35 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.

(GK)