By Eric Nicolson

SCOTLAND’S DEADLIEST road, the A9, can expect further major investment in the near future by an SNP Government which is “committed” to dualling it, Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson insisted yesterday.

Mr Stevenson joined Tayside Police officers on a trip to the notorious Ballinluig junction, which is being upgraded at a cost of £15 million.

He was keen to hear first hand the specific problems that the Perth to Inverness road poses to motorists and how officers believe accidents could be reduced.

A transport review with recommendations is expected within the next few months, after which a “programme of investment” for the A9 will follow.

The minister told The Courier, “We are committed to plan for dualling.

“What we have to do is identify the parts of the road where the next investment in dualling is to be made.

“That’s part of the Strategic Transport Projects Review that will be coming before ministers in late summer, and I’m sure we’ll see an appropriate programme of investment for the A9 that will address the concerns of locals and users.”

He added, “The A9 is a very long and complex road which we’re spending a considerable amount of money on.

“There are further challenges about how people use the road.”

Mr Stevenson continued, “We have foreign drivers, different speeds of vehicles and traffic that is seasonally quite different, and I want to best ensure safety for all those who use it.

“Some of the issues are quite simple and are dealt with by improved signage and ensuring foreign drivers understand the differences there are in the kind of road the A9 is and the side roads off it.

“We need good signage to show people there will be overtaking opportunities and that they don’t need to be impatient.

“This is coupled with substantial investment, such as at the Ballinluig junction, where it is absolutely necessary.”

Before he went out in the patrol car, Mr Stevenson met Chief Constable John Vine and western division commander Chief Superintendent Matt Hamilton.

Mr Stevenson continued, “The police are the front line. They have to deal with the horrific consequences of lives being lost on Scotland’s roads.

“Often first on the scene, they witness the needless tragedy, the heartache, and sadness. They witness the agony as they have to carry out that awful task of telling a family that a loved one has been lost.

“These police officers have a unique insight into road traffic accidents. It is an insight which could help us save lives.

“That is why I am here today, and that is why the Scottish Government is looking to develop a new 10- year road safety strategy for Scotland.

“Last week, we saw the Westminster Government consult on plans to change UK-wide legislation on driving and testing. I welcome that.

“Legislative change can deliver real improvements. But this Scottish Government will also do whatever it can within our own devolved powers to make that difference.”

Local Tory MSP, Murdo Fraser, wants to see “real commitment” to dual the A9 in its entirety from the SNP.

He said, “I hope that the Transport Minister’s meeting with Tayside Police and accompanying traffic officers on a patrol of the A9 will underline to the minister the need for A9 dualling.

“The meeting with Tayside Police is part of the SNP Government’s 10-year road safety strategy for Scotland.”

He continued, “As we have seen from the statistics, lives are lost on the A9 every year so we must see real action that will improve the road safety record of the A9.

“Tayside Police and other emergency services have to deal with appalling accidents on the A9 on an all too regular occurrence.”

Mr Fraser added, “The best way to improve road safety on the A9 is to dual the road in its entirety from Perth to Inverness and to carry out improvements to the many danger junctions.”