Construction companies are being offered the opportunity to bid for two major roads projects in south Scotland.

Procurement begins this month on both the A75 Dunragit Bypass and the A77 Symington to Bogend Toll schemes. Tender notices for both schemes will be published this month in the first stage in the procurement process.

Transport Minister Keith Brown said: "Scotland’s towns and cities require a high quality transport system to ensure economic prosperity and that is why we are committed to investing in major upgrades of key lifeline routes.

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"Through these vital schemes for Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway we will enhance safety and journey time reliability while supporting communities, business and tourism. By enhancing connectivity with the new Loch Ryan Ferry Port, we are making Scotland an even more attractive option for business and leisure."

The A75 Dunragit Bypass in Dumfries and Galloway will provide over three miles of new road aimed at improving overtaking for both east and westbound traffic.

In Ayrshire, the vital upgrades to the busy A77 will be progressed to target accident reduction and lead to a safer route for road users. Removing the gaps in the central reservation and introducing grade separated junctions at Symington and Bogend Toll will address safety concerns

The tender process is expected to be completed by Spring 2013 and it is anticipated work can start on both sites soon after. Both schemes are expected to be completed in 2014.

(GK)