Highlands & Islands MSP tells Scottish Government its ‘resolute commitment’ to the dualling of the A9 south must come with more than words

Highlands & Islands MSP Emma Roddick has told the Minister for Transport that, if Highlanders are to believe that the Scottish Government remains committed to dualling the A9 south, and to them, they need action along with words.

Speaking in a debate on road improvements and the dualling of the A9, Ms Roddick welcomed the “resolute commitment” to complete the project, but said she joined her constituents across the Highlands in feeling let down by the delay.

She said:

“It shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone that I am bitterly disappointed by the delay to the dualling of the A9 south.

“There are obvious challenges that come with carrying out such a large-scale project, but we can’t blame a lack of bids and move on.  People need to have confidence that this will happen, and clarity on how long it will take.  I was very clear during the debate that the Scottish Government, whatever it looks like in a week’s time, has a big job to do in rebuilding that trust.

“As discussions are ongoing, people in the Highlands can have confidence that I will continue to stand up for them and press for action, not just words.”