Archaeological assessments are underway as part of the multi-million pound A737 Dalry Bypass project.

The 10-week study will see experts investigate the site for historical Scottish artefacts before main construction work commences. Further works, including fencing and vegetation clearance, are also due to commence in the coming weeks.

The A737 Dalry Bypass involves building a new bypass to the east of Dalry and its associated junctions to connect with the existing A737 road.

The scheme aims to encourage improved economic and employment opportunities through better journey time reliability for motorists and businesses along the length of the A737.

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The project, which is worth between £34m and £38m, is scheduled for completion in 2018.

A Transport Scotland spokesperson said: "Transport Scotland is committed to ensuring archaeological assessments are undertaken on the sites of major infrastructure projects before the main construction works start.

"The development of a project such as the A737 Dalry Bypass enables archaeologists to study the site and remove any potential items of interest. This can be in the form of artefacts but soil samples can also provide a wealth of information about a site.

"The archaeological works on the A737 Dalry Bypass will start with around 10 archaeologists on site, with a further five people providing support and supervision. They will conduct a historic building survey, topographical surveys and photographic surveys, as well as evaluation trenching. Over the coming months, a report will be prepared and made available via the project website."

(LM/JP)