Question reference: S6W-13315
- Date lodged: 15 December 2022
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Current status: Answered by Jenny Gilruth on 16 December 2022
Question
To ask the Scottish Government whether it will provide an update on the programme for the additional A9 road safety measures, as referred to by the Minister for Transport in the debate on Essential Road Improvements on 2 November 2022.
Answer
This year’s safety performance of the A9 has been a concern for everyone and our thoughts remain with those affected by these tragic accidents.
I can advise today that this Government is taking forward a package of safety measures, valued at £5M, to help address the trends identified recently.
As well as the three safety schemes which are already scheduled for delivery, an additional £600,000 of works and campaigns will also be delivered by April, focussed on the A9 between Perth and Inverness.
This will include enhanced road markings with acoustic properties, illuminated road studs plus signage and improvements to highlight single carriageways and the transitions at dualled sections. Variable message signs will also be deployed along this part of the route.
For 2023-24 and 2024-25, the scope and extent of these works will be expanded between Perth and Inverness, delivering significant and important investment to improve roads safety.
I will also be working with the car hire sector and key local and regional partners to examine how tourists and foreign drivers can be better educated on Scotland’s roads. This will aid our wider campaign work on “Drive on the Left” and will also highlight the necessity for taking regular breaks, tackling driver fatigue.
Having met with MSPs from across the chamber following the debate on A9 road safety last month, I will convene a meeting with members, Transport Scotland, Bear Scotland and Police Scotland in the New Year to talk to these vital improvements and address any questions members will have. The next A9 Safety Group will convene in February 2023.