Motorists face delays as essential resurfacing works take place on A96.
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Motorists traveling on the A96 this weekend are facing significant disruptions due to essential roadworks that have resulted in a 30-mile diversion. The resurfacing works, which began on Wednesday, are taking place on a nearly half-mile stretch of the busy Aberdeen to Inverness route.
This project aims to enhance road safety and improve driving conditions for the thousands of vehicles that rely on this corridor daily.
Details of the road closure
The roadworks are currently focused near Cairnie, where access to the trunk road is restricted between the Cairnie junction and south of the Windyraw junction.
The full closure of the A96 came into effect at PM on Friday and is expected to last until AM on Monday. Traffic Scotland has issued updates advising motorists to follow local diversion routes to avoid delays.
Traffic management and diversion routes
As traffic builds in the area, all vehicles are being diverted via Dufftown and Craigellachie. An Amey spokesperson provided detailed instructions for motorists: northbound traffic will turn left onto the A920 at Huntly, then proceed onto the A941 towards Dufftown. At Dufftown, drivers will turn right onto the B9014 and then left onto the B975 Castle Road before rejoining the A941 to Craigellachie. Southbound traffic will follow a similar route, ensuring that all vehicles can navigate around the closed section of the A96.
Benefits of the resurfacing works
These resurfacing efforts are expected to benefit nearly 7,300 vehicles that use this route each day, providing a smoother ride and reducing the need for ongoing maintenance. Originally scheduled for June of last year, the roadworks were postponed due to adverse weather conditions. The project is set to continue into next week, with all traffic management measures scheduled to be lifted by AM on Wednesday. Temporary traffic lights will be reinstated on Monday between AM and PM, followed by two nights of convoy working.
Motorists are urged to plan their journeys accordingly and remain patient as these essential works are carried out. The improvements made during this period will ultimately enhance the driving experience on one of Scotland’s key transport routes.
