Road users are now experiencing the benefit of the recently opened road improvement scheme on the A7.

The Transport Scotland project upgraded 2.3km of carriageway, near Auchenrivock, south of Langholm.

The benefits of the completed improvement scheme include improving the operation and safety of the A7, increasing the number of overtaking opportunities and incorporating the needs of cyclists and pedestrians following a tender process.

The contract was awarded to Morrison Construction.

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The design of the project was carried out by Dumfries and Galloway Council's DG First. Councillor Peter Duncan, chairman of Dumfries and Galloway Council's Resources committee, said: "This is one of Scotland's major infrastructure projects and I'm proud of the part played by DG First in bringing it to fruition.

"The quality and professionalism of our project staff has been evident throughout. Local people, businesses and visitors are now reaping the benefit of a job well done."

The new carriageway, which has improved safety and offers long-term benefits to local communities, replaced a winding road along the east bank of the River Esk.

While providing additional safe overtaking opportunities, the project also includes part of the old road being converted into a cycle path. This will give locals and tourists the opportunity to use a more sustainable transport alternative.

(GK/JM)