Local communities along the A96 between Aberdeen and Inverness will benefit from a £3.265 million road improvement package due to get underway this summer.

The programme kicks off later this month with works between Cowfords and Marchfield. Further upgrade schemes will also be carried out between the Huntly Roundabout north and Westerton Farm, and between Wittet Drive, Elgin and Oakwood, which are planned for late summer and early autumn.

The initial phase will see the much needed reconstruction and resurfacing of almost one mile of carriageway between Cowfords and Marchfield. This part of the programme, worth £964,000, is set to start on Monday 22nd of June for four weeks.

Local communities will benefit from the extension and resurfacing of the footpath and cycleway which runs alongside this section of road. Bear Scotland, who is supervising the programme on Transport Scotland's behalf, will also use this opportunity to carry out drainage works.

Stewart Stevenson, Minister for Transport said:

"The A96 is a vital link in the north east and this £3 million plus investment demonstrates this Government's commitment to improving roads in the region. As a Government we are always looking at ways to encourage people out of their cars and onto sustainable forms of travel like walking and cycling which is why we are extending the cycle way and foot path along this route.

"Projects such as this also provide a vital boost to the construction industry in Scotland, helping our hard pressed construction workers in this challenging economic climate."

The A96 is a key trunk road used by over 15,000 vehicles each day. The volume of traffic has lead to general wear and tear, especially as the HGV traffic makes up 12% of the total traffic on this busy route. This programme of essential improvement works will ensure that this section of road continues to operate safely for many years to come.