Around 60 miles of the A9 that requires dualling will be paid for by capital funding, writes Peter Brown.
Scotland’s transport secretary Fiona Hyslop MSP confirmed the process as she explained the Scottish Government’s 2026 Delivery Plan for the A9 Dualling Programme.
The cabinet secretary also confirmed that a Framework Agreement will be established to streamline the procurement process.
All remaining sections of the dualling programme yet to commence procurement are to be acquired under the proposed Framework Agreement, which is expected to start in Spring 2026.
The five sections covering around 60 miles are Pass of Birnam to Tay Crossing, Killiecrankie to Glen Garry, Glen Garry to Crubenmore, Crubenmore to Kincraig and Dalraddy to Slochd.
Fiona Hyslop added: “The contracting market is critical to successful delivery of the A9 Dualling by end 2035 and engaging with the market to develop this Framework is our first important step to ensuring this for the remaining sections of the Programme.
“This Framework will provide a much-needed pipeline which is what the market has asked for and is necessary to deliver this vital infrastructure Programme.
“It is expected the Framework will commence procurement in Spring 2026 with participants being appointed to the Framework by the end of 2026. This will assist in securing market capacity giving more certainty to communities and drivers that this Plan will complete dualling by the end of 2035.
“Completing the dualling of the A9 means safer roads, with reduced accident risk; enhanced connectivity for communities and businesses across the Highlands; and a boost to regional economic growth by improving access for tourism, trade, and investment.”
