A vital phase of works at the £230m Dumfries and Galloway District Hospital complex has been completed, Transport Scotland has confirmed.

The completed phase saw the new Garroch roundabout, located on the A75 Dumfries Bypass, finished and operational.

Completed seven weeks ahead of schedule and on budget, the £1.2m contract included increasing the size of the four-leg roundabout and realigning some of the approach roads.

In a statement, Transport Minister Keith Brown said: "Good access for local communities to the new hospital facilities in Dumfries and Galloway will be an essential part of the new health complex.

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"It is important that traffic visiting the new Infirmary, where construction starts next year, is managed well and the upgraded roundabout at Garroch will ensure better managed traffic in and out of the new 350-bed infirmary."

Dennis O'Keeffe, Project Director for the new hospital, added: "The Board would like to emphasise the professionalism of Transport Scotland's Special Projects team for the successful delivery of this project.

"Furthermore Balfour Beatty's approach to the delivery and traffic management of this complicated contract has been exemplary. It has been completed ahead of programme and with the highest regard to health and safety, and minimal disruption to the users of this busy route.

"It also reflects well upon the considerable and sustained efforts by the Board, Transport Scotland and Balfour Beatty to consult and engage with local residents and businesses affected by these works, and their consideration of the needs of the travelling public who rely upon the A75."

(JP/CD)