Scottish Budget confirms funding for Tomatin-Moy dualling section to start next year
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The A9 is set to receive funding for work to commence on the Tomatin-Moy section of the dualling programme, confirmation came in finance secretary Shona Robison’s Scottish budget statement.
Ms Robison, who is also the deputy first minister, revealed that the Highland economy “needs” the A9 so the Scottish Government so the next phase of the A9 will start work in 2024-25.
Funding will be provided not just for the construction of Tomatin-Moy but also for “land acquisition for further sections,” in a move welcomed by two Highland MSPs as positive news.
Ms Robison said: “Recognising the needs of the Highland economy we will progress the next phase of the A9 dualling programme in 2024-25, including commencing construction on the Tomatin to Moy section and advancing procurement and land acquisition for further sections.
“The cabinet secretary for transport, net zero and just transition will be making a statement on the detail to parliament tomorrow.”
The SNP later wrote on social media: “We will keep our promise to dual the A9. Our Budget delivers funding to deliver the next phase of the A9 dualling programme in 2024-25, including commencing the Tomatin to Moy section.”
Ms Robison’s predecessor, Kate Forbes who is the MSP for Skye, Badenoch and Lochaber, was among the first to welcome the news – she said: Budget highlights for Highlands & islands: A9 dualling progress with Tomatin-Moy beginning construction & preparation of other sections to allow completion.”
Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick said: “Great to hear in the Scottish Budget that tomorrow we will get an update on the A9 from Moy to Tomatin – commencing construction included in the budget as well as advancing procurement and land acquisition for further sections.”
Earlier it was revealed that cabinet secretary Mairi McAllan will deliver a ministerial statement on the future of the A9 to the Scottish Parliament tomorrow, which is expected sometime after 14.30.
