Long-awaited work to build a potentially lifesaving flyover on the north-east’s busiest road could finally progress in 2019.
Transport Minister Humza Yousaf told MSPs that he hoped designs for the A90 Laurencekirk interchange would be published in the next three years.
Residents have been calling for action – in the shape of a flyover or underpass – on Aberdeen-Dundee route at its junction with the A937 to Montrose for years.
In January, Mr Yousaf’s processor Derek Mackay announced work to build an overpass would begin “as soon as possible”.
But only months later Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Jobs and Fair Work Keith Brown suggested that the work to build a flyover could take a decade.
Yesterday, Mr Yousaf sought to reassure MSPs that the work was proceeding.
He told Holyrood’s rural economy and connectivity committee: “I can give a confirmation that the grade separation (flyover) at Laurencekirk is something that we are not only committed to but have announced the £24million for the design and construction.
“We are putting our money where our mouth is. That’s incredibly important for us.”
Mr Yousaf also cautioned that there were still a number of potential issues which could hold up the project, such as complaints from local residents.
He said: “All going well, the target for the draft orders would be 2019.
“But I am reluctant to nail that to the mast because of the various objections and other things (that could delay the project).”
Florist Jill Fotheringham, who has spent years campaigning for a flyover since the death of a friend, gave a cautious welcome to the move.
She said: “Although we have been told it is happening, as far as we know it is still in the early planning stages and anything could happen.
“To get a firm starting date would be great news for commuters and we really need the reassurance of when it is going to happen.
Scottish Liberal Democrat MSP Mike Rumbles, who sits on the Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee, welcomed Mr Yousaf’s comments.
Angus North and Mearns MSP Mairi Evans, who also sits on the committee, added: “I hope this news will reassure local residents, businesses and developers that the Laurencekirk junction is indeed going ahead and will be delivered as soon as possible.”
