Murdo Fraser MSP has welcomed “some changes” regarding dealing with traffic delays on the A9 due to roadworks but has stated “it is not the answer.”
The Scottish Conservative politician had written to SGN Gas, who are working on fitting a gas pipe on the road between Birnam to Logierait. The roadworks have led to lengthy delays for motorists, with some people taking up to more than two hours to reach their destination.
In his letter to SGN Gas, Mr Fraser had highlighted how Friday afternoons tend to be a peak time for problems on the road north of Dunkeld due to the roadworks and cited a recent return to further traffic delays. He therefore had asked SGN Gas if there was scope for the works to be suspended from a Friday lunchtime through to a Sunday evening.
SGN Gas have said they recognise that there is the “possibility” that traffic flows may increase in the lead up to Christmas so they are planning to remove the traffic management system every Saturday evening through to Sunday evening to “alleviate possible delays.”
Commenting, Mr Fraser said: “While I welcome this move to remove the traffic management system every Saturday evening through to Sunday evening, it is not the answer I was looking for. However, it is good news that SGN Gas are making some changes, so hopefully we will see less delays on this stretch of the A9.
“I am pleased that SGN Gas took the time to meet with the chair of the local Community Council last Friday. They have also carried out analysis on the impact of ceasing the roadworks from Friday to Sunday, which they claim shows that the overall project may have to be extended by around six weeks.”
Mr Fraser continued: “Many constituents have contacted me about the lengthy traffic delays caused by the roadworks. Concerns were raised from motorists and local residents so I really hope these latest proposals to reduce delays on the A9 north of Dunkeld are effective. Rest assured; I will be keeping a close eye on the situation.”
