In Edinburgh, Scotland, SNP MSP Fergus Ewing has expressed frustration and concern over the delayed A9 dualling project. Following a series of fatal accidents in March, Ewing penned a letter to Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop, questioning the Scottish Government’s commitment to the project.
The A9 road has seen a spike in tragedies, with multiple deaths and injuries occurring in a short span of time. These incidents have left families grieving and raised serious safety concerns among the public.
Ewing’s letter to Hyslop highlighted his worries that the government may backtrack on its promise to complete the A9 programme by 2035. The recent announcement of the new A9 programme, made in December, has raised doubts about its feasibility and timely delivery.
The MSP raised valid concerns about the prioritization of A9 sections south of Drumochter over those in the Highlands. He criticized the inclusion of caveats related to market conditions, which could potentially hinder the project’s progress.
Ewing emphasized the importance of adequate funding for the A9 dualling project, pointing out that the Scottish budget allocates significant resources annually. He urged Hyslop to remove any ambiguities in the plan and ensure that there are ample funds available for the construction.
Hyslop acknowledged the challenges ahead but refrained from guaranteeing the 2035 deadline, citing unforeseen events that may affect the timeline. Despite reassurances about the ambitious plan for the Highlands communities, doubts remain about the government’s ability to deliver on its promises.
Ewing’s letter reflects a growing discontent among the public and officials regarding the A9 dualling project. The pressure is mounting on the Scottish Government to address these concerns and provide clarity on the future of this crucial infrastructure initiative.