A series of striking images have been released to celebrate a new milestone in the Scottish Government’s £3 billion A9 dualling project.
The photographs show work on a new bridge at the Stanley/Tullybelton junction, north of Perth.
Fifteen concrete beams, weighing between 49 and 57 tonnes, were swung into place over the carriageway during three overnight closures.
A 750-tonne crane was used to lift and secure the pieces in place, before the road was reopened to traffic each morning.
It is one year since the contract to dual the six-mile Luncarty to Pass of Birnam stretch was awarded. The stretch is currently the subject of restrictions.
Project manager for contractors Balfour Beatty Alan Brisbane said: “The success of the beam lift operation marks a significant construction milestone, and is the first major piece of the new infrastructure now visible to road users.
“Over the next few months, road users and the local communities will see a distinct change in the landscape as the line of the new carriageway begins to emerge.”
He said: “There is still a great deal of work to be done, both in terms of construction and in delivering more community benefits to the local area, but I am confident we will exceed expectations on both fronts.”
Transport secretary Michael Matheson visited the site to check out construction on the £96 million phase and meet with staff and trainees.
He discussed the project with local trainee labourers Patrick Stewart, 19, and David McPhee, 22, who secured full-time work as general operatives following successful two-week placements arranged through a partnership between Balfour Beatty and children’s charity Barnardos.
Mr Matheson said: “This is an ambitious programme that will create and sustain construction jobs in Scotland for many years to come, and this opportunity is arguably life-changing for these young trainees.
“Providing long-term employment and training opportunities for young people is vital to equip them with the skills to build a solid foundation for their future careers.”
He added: “As Scotland’s largest infrastructure project, the A9 dualling programme offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create a legacy the industry can be proud of.”
