Public pressure mounts as SNP government faces scrutiny over A9 dualling timeline
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The ongoing campaign for the dualling of the A9 between Perth and Inverness has gained renewed momentum as Highland campaigners express frustration over the Scottish National Party (SNP) government’s lack of progress. Laura Hansler, a prominent advocate for road safety, has been vocal in her criticism, stating that the government is ‘no further forward’ in completing this vital infrastructure project.
Frustration over government inaction
During a recent debate at Holyrood, Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop provided an update on the A9 dualling inquiry. However, Hansler, who attended the session, described the government’s response as ‘reprehensible.’ She noted that there was a significant amount of jargon and spin, but little substance to reassure the public about the project’s timeline.
‘In the last 16 years, they’ve managed to dual only 11 miles of road,’ she pointed out, highlighting the stark contrast between promises and actual progress.
Calls for a memorial to road victims
In addition to advocating for the dualling project, Hansler is pushing for the establishment of a public memorial to honor those who have lost their lives in A9 collisions. She believes that the government should take responsibility and acknowledge the impact of these tragedies on families and communities. ‘We are not hearing people talk about the devastation caused by these accidents,’ she lamented, emphasizing the need for a more compassionate response from the government.
Political pressure mounts for expedited action
Highland MSPs have rallied behind Hansler’s calls, urging the SNP government to expedite the dualling of the A9. Fergus Ewing, MSP for Inverness and Nairn, quoted a famous line from the film ‘The Godfather,’ suggesting that the government should not refuse the opportunity to accelerate the project. The SNP had initially promised to complete the dualling by 2025, but recent announcements have pushed the deadline back to 2035, prompting accusations of failure from opposition members.
Transport Secretary Hyslop defended the government’s approach, stating that they have made ‘good progress’ in awarding contracts for various sections of the road. She reiterated the commitment to dual 50% of the A9 by the end of 2030, 85% by 2033, and complete the project by 2035. However, the skepticism from campaigners and local politicians remains palpable, as they demand more immediate action and transparency regarding the project’s status.
As the debate continues, the voices of those affected by the A9’s dangerous conditions grow louder. The call for a memorial and the urgent need for road improvements reflect a broader demand for accountability and safety on Scotland’s roads. The Highland community is determined to ensure that the government prioritizes the dualling of the A9, not just as a matter of infrastructure, but as a commitment to the lives and well-being of its citizens.
