Plans to create a long-awaited flyover at an accident blackspot on the north-east’s busiest road have taken a step forward with the appointment of Amey as contractor for the project.
The firm will be responsible for the construction of the new grade-separated junction at the A90 Aberdeen to Dundee road’s south junction in Laurencekirk.
The site where the dual carriageway meets the A937 Laurencekirk to Marykirk road has been the scene of a series of fatal collisions and serious road accidents throughout the years.
The Scottish Government announced the awarding of the contract yesterday. The news came after Holyrood pledged £24million to improve the junction as part of a £254million investment to coincide with the north-east’s City Region Deal in January.
Uncertainty shrouded the scheme in June when Scottish infrastructure secretary, Keith Brown, suggested it could take up to a decade to build.
However, the Scottish Government’s transport minister, Humza Yousaf, said last night the target was to get the project up and running “as soon as possible”.
Amey will now work on a route option assessment for the junction in order to develop ways of making the road safer for motorists.
Mr Yousaf added: “Earlier this year, we announced £24million for the design and construction of a new grade-separated junction at Laurencekirk as part of as part of a package of additional investment alongside the Aberdeen City Region Deal.
“We are committed to completing this important upgrade as soon as possible and the appointment of design consultants means we are now stepping up the work to deliver this much-needed scheme.
“We have been working hard with the two local authorities and Nestrans and will continue that partnership approach, so we can bring improved road safety and economic benefits to road users and the local community in Laurencekirk and north Angus.”
Mearns Conservative councillor, George Carr, said: “The sooner the better. I think there was some disappointment it could be 2020 before they get going with it.
“The money is there, we really just need to get on with it.
“The weather conditions in the north-east means it is an inappropriate junction with the fog you get. Kids have to cross it on a daily basis, it is unacceptable.
“It is good news we are getting the junction.”
