Preparatory works are now underway on the fourth section of the A9 Dualling Programme, marking the start of another major phase in one of Scotland’s most significant infrastructure projects.
The £257 million investment by the Scottish Government will upgrade 8.2 kilometres (around five miles) of the A9 between Tay Crossing and Ballinluig from single to dual carriageway.
Wills Bros Civil Engineering Ltd, who were awarded the construction contract in the summer, have begun establishing a temporary site compound and office area between Guay and Kindallachan.
Early works will also include creating access points for construction traffic, tree felling, and utility diversion works to prepare the route for full-scale construction.
The project will run through to early 2026 and aims to deliver a safer, more efficient, and more resilient road connection for all users, while also creating training, education, and employment opportunities for local people.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop MSP said the visible progress along the route demonstrates the government’s ongoing commitment to complete the A9 dualling by 2035.
“Works are now visible across both the southern and northern extents of the A9 Dualling Programme and this progress will continue in line with our commitment to see the A9 fully dualled by 2035,” she said.
“I appreciate that this may mean some disruption locally, and I would encourage anyone living nearby to attend the upcoming engagement events being held by the contractor.”
To keep residents and businesses informed, Wills Bros will host “Meet the Contractor” events in the coming weeks to share details of their construction plans and traffic management measures. Dates and venues will be announced shortly.
Temporary traffic management will be required along the route, with layouts changing between Jubilee Bridge and Ballinluig as work progresses. Road users are being asked to drive with care and to check the Traffic Scotland and A9 Dualling websites for the latest updates.
Transport Scotland Project Manager Ruth Whillis said every effort is being made to reduce disruption.
“We are working closely with our contractor to deliver these preparatory works in a way that minimises disruption to traffic and local communities,” she said.
“We ask road users to approach the area with care as traffic management layouts will change.”
Chris Dale, Site Agent for Wills Bros Civil Engineering Ltd, said the start of works marks an exciting step forward.
“These works are a crucial first step in delivering the new carriageway,” he said.
“We look forward to meeting local residents and businesses at our upcoming events and thank everyone using the route for their continued patience.”
For more information on the A9 Dualling Programme visit www.a9dualling.scot.
For live traffic updates, visit www.trafficscotland.org.
