Moray SNP News

LOCHHEAD WELCOMES RULING OUT OF PLUSCARDEN ROUTE AS A96 DUALLING OPTIONS ARE UNVEILED

Richard Lochhead MSP has welcomed news that Transport Scotland has ruled out the progression of route option N, which would have seen the dualled A96 built through the Pluscarden Valley.

Mr Lochhead received the attached letter from the Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Jobs and Fair Work, Keith Brown MSP, which confirmed the option has been ruled out at this early stage as the route would not be suitable in terms of traffic flow and management.

Moray’s MSP attended the Public Exhibition at Elgin Town Hall today [Monday 19th] to meet the project management team and to learn more about the final route options and how people in Moray can feed in to the consultation process.

Speaking after the consultation event, Mr Lochhead said:

“The commitment of the SNP Government to dual the A96 is hugely significant and the results will be of great benefit to the people of Moray and the local economy.  The cost of dualling the Hardmuir to Fochabers section is over £500m, which is a phenomenal investment in our local infrastructure and is something as Moray’s MSP I absolutely welcome.

“The scale of the project is massive and it was clear to see from the turnout at the exhibition today that the people in Moray have a keen interest in the dualling and want to have their say over the final route.  It is really important that local views are taken into account and I would encourage anyone living along the A96 corridor to attend one of the consultation events this week to see the options and to share their views on the proposals before the deadline of 4th August.

“I’m pleased that as we move forward the option for the road to go through Pluscarden Valley has been removed following concerns expressed by the community.  Having met with many concerns constituents, and having pushed for the option to be ruled out, I know this will come as a great relief and will give comfort to many people in Moray.  Whilst there will be differing opinion of the best route, I hope that Transport Scotland will continue to engage with the affected communities and residents and do all they can to work with local people throughout the various stages of this massive project.”