The Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop, has visited the A9 Dualling: Tomatin to Moy site to mark one year since the construction contract was awarded and to learn about the value already being delivered for local communities and businesses.

The £296 million Scottish Government investment is already delivering significant social benefits to the local communities and the wider Scottish economy.

Over a third (36%) of the employees on the site are based locally, and over £1m has been spent with Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) within 20 miles of the area, which is helping to support and drive the local economy. The project has also delivered training and development opportunities for young people, with three apprentices and eight graduates currently working on the site.

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In her comments, Ms Hyslop said that the progress at the northern end of the programme, combined with the recent contract award for the Tay Crossing to Ballinluig section, should signal the Scottish Government's commitment to dualling the A9. The Cabinet Secretary added that the project is about more than just building a road; it's about "building opportunities" and delivering "real, tangible benefits" that show how infrastructure investment can transform lives and strengthen communities.

The project, which was awarded to Balfour Beatty Civil Engineering Ltd, is well under way, with works progressing on a new rail bridge and significant earthworks. By the end of construction, the project is expected to have delivered at least 88 new qualifications, supporting sustainable employment. The project team has also engaged with local organisations, holding an employability event at His Majesty's Prison Inverness to help support ex-offenders into jobs. In addition to creating jobs, education, and training opportunities, the team has supported local community projects such as the Tomatin community housing project and the Moy Country Games.