The Scottish Government has confirmed the shortlist of contractors competing to deliver the fifth section of the A9 Dualling Programme, as work continues to accelerate on one of Scotland’s most significant infrastructure projects.
The next stage of the project will see approximately four miles (6.4 kilometres) of road between Pitlochry and Killiecrankie upgraded to dual carriageway.
The three shortlisted contractors are:
- Balfour Beatty Civil Engineering Ltd
- Kier Transportation Ltd
- Wills Bros Civil Engineering Ltd
Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop welcomed the announcement, describing it as a key milestone in the Government’s commitment to completing the A9 dualling between Perth and Inverness.
“The Government is continuing to meet the planned milestones in our Delivery Plan for completion of the A9 Dualling Programme,” she said.
“This next phase in the procurement process will see an intensive period of ongoing discussions as each of the contractors work to refine their outline design proposals.
“This is part of our approach to drive value for money for the Scottish taxpayer.”
“We expect to award this contract in Autumn next year and when construction is complete for this section it is anticipated that almost 50% of the A9 between Perth and Inverness will be dualled, demonstrating this Government’s commitment to complete this vital infrastructure improvement.”
The £205 million project (estimated at Q2 2025 prices) will include the construction or upgrading of nine bridges.
These include a new crossing of the River Tummel alongside the existing Tummel Bridge, a new bridge beside the existing Clunie Bridge over Loch Faskally, and a new rail bridge over the Highland Mainline Railway.
The scheme also includes enhanced provision for pedestrians and cyclists, with new safe walking and wheeling crossings, as well as improved access to non-motorised travel routes, including the Rob Roy Way.
Over the coming months, the shortlisted firms will enter a period of detailed dialogue with Transport Scotland before submitting final tenders.
The contract is expected to be awarded in autumn 2026, with the section scheduled to be operational by the end of 2030.
The Pitlochry to Killiecrankie project will be the third to be delivered under Transport Scotland’s amended NEC4 Engineering and Construction contract, incorporating a carbon reduction fund designed to support additional emissions-cutting measures.
Beyond the engineering work, the project aims to deliver a lasting legacy for communities along the route.
This includes creating training and apprenticeship opportunities, promoting fair work and wellbeing for all staff, and supporting local subcontractors and small businesses.
Through the Academy9 programme, the project will also connect local schools with real-world learning opportunities, inspiring the next generation to explore careers in engineering and construction.
