Contractors are being urged to apply for a £30million deal to develop the Maypole bypass.

The successful bidder will be required to build approximately 5.2km of bypass and associated junctions, according to the Scottish Government.

Once complete the scheme will separate local road users from those travelling longer distances, including to the key ports of Stranraer and Cairnryan.

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Minister for Transport & Islands, Humza Yousaf said: "The Scottish Government remains committed to delivering this strategic link, which serves the Ayrshire and Northern Ireland ferry ports, at the earliest possible opportunity.

"Completion will reduce the congestion within the town, bringing much needed relief for the local Maybole community whilst improving journey times for long distance road users.

"I welcome the announcement which along with a contract notice issued for improvement work to the A9 at Berriedale Braes in the far north of Scotland, provides the construction industry with significant contract opportunities."

Work is expected to get underway in 2018.

(CD/MH)