Drivers travelling on the A9 between Tomatin and Moy should prepare for significant changes as major temporary traffic management measures come into effect from Monday 10 March 2025.
These measures are being introduced ahead of the long-awaited dualling project, which aims to enhance safety and reduce congestion along this stretch of the A9.
The most noticeable change for motorists will be a new 40mph speed limit, which will remain in place until the project is completed in spring 2028.
To ensure compliance with the reduced speed, temporary safety cameras will be installed throughout the works area.
In addition, lane narrowing will gradually be introduced to create the necessary working space for construction teams.
For the initial phase of the project, temporary traffic signals and convoy working will also be required for approximately ten nights between 19:30 and 06:00, from Sunday evening to Saturday morning. No works will take place on Saturday nights.
The decision to implement these measures is primarily focused on the safety of both road users and the workforce involved in the construction project.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop acknowledged that while the lower speed limit might slightly extend journey times, it is a crucial step in maintaining safety throughout the works.
“Whilst the reduced speed limit will mean that journeys take a little longer as construction work proceeds, this is a vital contribution to ensuring the safety of road users and construction workers.
“I encourage all road users to plan their journeys ahead of time and adhere to the speed limit as they travel through the works area,” she said.
Transport Scotland’s Project Manager, Dominick Cafferkey, echoed this sentiment, urging drivers to be cautious and follow all signage in place.
“We ask all road users to take care on approach to the area, to observe and obey all signage, and we thank them for their patience whilst these essential temporary traffic management measures are in place,” he stated.
Despite the restrictions, efforts are being made to minimise disruption.
Pedestrian access will be maintained throughout the project, and public transport services will continue to operate as usual. Bus stops at Tomatin Junction will remain active in both directions.
However, laybys within the project corridor will be closed to the public, with designated laybys made available for vehicles carrying large loads.
The Tomatin to Moy dualling project forms a key part of Scotland’s long-term strategy to upgrade the A9, a vital route connecting the Highlands to the rest of the country.
While delays are inevitable during major infrastructure projects, the improvements aim to create a safer, more efficient road network in the long run.
Motorists are advised to factor in extra time for their journeys and keep an eye on Transport Scotland’s updates for any changes as work progresses.
The end goal is a modernised, dual carriageway section of the A9 that will improve safety and ease traffic flow for generations to come.
