Britain's last remaining single track trunk road, the A830 'Road to the Isles', has been upgraded to double carriageway standard following a £23m investment.

Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson said completion marked the end of an era for a road which has been famed for many years for its single track status.

However, he added that the upgrade would be widely welcomed, bringing vital safety improvements and boosting the Highlands economy.

During a visit to the site yesterday, Mr Stevenson also reaffirmed the commitment of the Scottish Government and Highland Council to upgrade another key artery for the Highlands - the A82.

The Scottish Government's transport blueprint had marked this as a priority for the Scottish Government, with £90m of investment identified as part of the Strategic Transport Projects Review.

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The Minister said: "The Road to the Small Isles is one of the most stunning in Scotland, with unrivalled views which showcase some of the best scenery anywhere in the Highlands. For years, the road has been famed for its single track status, and in many ways this is the end of an era. However, anyone who has ever experienced the road, will know that this is vital investment which will be welcomed by the local community, visitors and businesses alike.

"This investment will deliver important safety improvements and boost the local economy."

During the A830 project, an additional £239,000 was invested in the construction of two new lay-bys to give road users the opportunity to stop to enjoy the breath-taking views on one of Scotland's most scenic routes.

Some of that scenery meant special consideration had to be given to environmental factors during the design and construction phases. As the road passes through Glen Beasdale Special Area of Conservation, noted for its ancient oakwood, its otters and its fresh water mussels, significant effort was made to retain the existing character of the area. Furthermore, a new habitat is currently being developed to maintain and improve oak woodland.

Jim Steele, Operations Director for Morrison Construction's civil engineering business in Scotland, said:"We are proud of the quality of work we have produced at Arisaig and the way the new road blends into the natural beauty of its surroundings."

(GK/KMcA)