BOOST FOR SOUTH WEST SCOTLAND AS A77 UPGRADE PROCESS GETS UNDER WAY

BOOST FOR SOUTH WEST SCOTLAND AS A77 UPGRADE PROCESS GETS UNDER WAY

Alasdair Morgan MSP has welcomed the announcement today by Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson of the launch of the procurement tender process for the A77 Parkend to Bennane upgrade.

The multi-million pound carriageway widening project will deliver improvements on the vital route to the Stranraer and Cairnryan ferry ports. The tender process is expected to be completed by autumn 2010 and it is anticipated work can start on site soon after for an expected opening in spring 2011.

SNP MSP for the South of Scotland Mr Morgan, said:

"This is very good news for South West Scotland. The condition of the A77 has been a concern for local people for some time. It is a vital transport link, not just for the people in this area but also for the many visitors who use the Stranraer and Cairnryan ferry ports, and the upgrade will result in improved traffic flow and faster journeys on this key route.

"The £6.2 million funding for the Park End to Bennane upgrade was announced just last week and I am very impressed with the speed at which the SNP Government has moved to get the tender process and subsequent upgrade work underway. We look set to benefit from this vital improvement by as early as next spring.

"This major investment and swift action will bring long term benefits to South West Scotland and is a signal of the SNP's commitment to jobs, businesses and communities in the area."

ENDS