Scotland TranServ has completed a road repair works on the A77 near Cairnryan.

More than £1 million has been invested to install a new retaining wall along the road, stabilising the embankment which supports the A77.

The project follows a pledge by Transport Minister Humza Yousaf at the South West inaugural transport summit to review the project for delivery as a priority.

A detailed study is now scheduled to get underway to examine the rationale for transport improvements in the region, including the A77.

Minister Yousaf said: "Good and reliable transport links are essential for the local and national economy, and the A77, which serves one of Scotland's key commercial ports at Cairnryan, is no exception. At the region's first ever transport summit, I listened to concerns and acted promptly. I'm delighted to announce that the work is complete and the traffic management system has now been removed.

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"We have invested approximately £1 million to ensure the complex engineering work could be carried out as quickly and as safely as possible, with a new retaining wall now  supporting the road.

"I know that local residents were concerned at how long the work was taking, but the geography in the area presented engineers with significant challenges over a prolonged period to complete the design, whilst also keeping this vital route open and operational.

"We have worked closely with contractors, the community, the Action Group and ferry operators at Cairnryan to ensure the impact to road users, freight and passenger services was minimised."

Andy Fraser, Scotland TranServ's Operating Company Representative, added: "This was a complex geotechnical issue, affecting a busy freight and tourist route. The health and safety of motorists and our workers is of the utmost importance, and that's why it is important that the design considered all aspects of the issue and delivered a robust, long-lasting solution, supporting the needs of our communities.

"We will continue working with key stakeholders as we deliver our maintenance programme along the A77, with a number of projects already planned for the months ahead."

(LM/MH)