Local communities along the A96 between Aberdeen and Inverness will benefit from a £3.265m road improvement package due to get underway this summer.

The programme kicks off later this month with works between Cowfords and Marchfield. Further upgrade schemes will also be carried out between the Huntly Roundabout north and Westerton Farm, and between Wittet Drive, Elgin and Oakwood, which are planned for late summer and early autumn.

The initial phase will see the much needed reconstruction and resurfacing of almost one mile of carriageway between Cowfords and Marchfield. This part of the programme, worth £964,000, is set to start on Monday 22nd of June for four weeks.

Local communities will benefit from the extension and resurfacing of the footpath and cycleway which runs alongside this section of road. Bear Scotland, who is supervising the programme on Transport Scotland's behalf, will also use this opportunity to carry out drainage works.

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Stewart Stevenson, Minister for Transport said: "The A96 is a vital link in the north east and this £3m plus investment demonstrates this Government’s commitment to improving roads in the region.

"As a Government we are always looking at ways to encourage people out of their cars and onto sustainable forms of travel like walking and cycling which is why we are extending the cycle way and foot path along this route."

The A96 is a key trunk road used by over 15,000 vehicles each day. The volume of traffic has lead to general wear and tear, especially as the HGV traffic makes up 12% of the total traffic on this busy route. This programme of essential improvement works will ensure that this section of road continues to operate safely for many years to come.

John Murphy, Director, BEAR Scotland said: "The A96 is a well used road, connecting communities throughout the North East of Scotland. We appreciate that this essential work will cause some disruption and wish to thank motorists in advance for their patience."

The reconstruction works have been carefully planned, designed and timed in consultation with the Moray Council and Grampian Police to minimise the impact on the travelling public, however some delays are unavoidable due to the volume of traffic on this route. Drivers are encouraged to listen for traffic bulletins and get up-to-the minute travel information by visiting the Traffic Scotland website.

The works are being undertaken by Ennstone Thistle and supervised by Bear Scotland.

(GK/JM)