Community councils will now have a bigger say on work to dual the main trunk route through Moray.
Fears have been raised that upgrade work on the A96 will destroy countryside while bypassing major towns in the region.
But yesterday Transport Scotland confirmed they were setting up regular community council forum groups to keep residents updated about the extensive project between Hardmuir and Fochabers while allowing them to give feedback.
Forres community council chairman, Stewart Noble, said: “It’s going to change the whole nature of the town. It’s like turning the front door into the back door.
“We’ve been encouraging as many people as possible to have their say about it. The more consultation about something like this the better.”
Highlands and Islands MSP Douglas Ross met Transport Secretary Humza Yousaf this week to highlight concerns about one potential route, which could send motorists near Pluscarden Abbey.
The minister has already pledged to personally scrutinise the route after meeting Moray member Richard Lochhead to see if it should be removed from consideration.
Mr Ross said he was encouraged to see communities will have the opportunity to provide regular feedback about the work as it is ongoing.
He said: “An issue raised with me was the lack of contact individuals and communities feel they have had with Transport Scotland and others on this major project.
“I was therefore pleased to hear that a group to liaise with community councils will be set up shortly to ensure all the information is made readily available to communities.”
Following the meeting a separate briefing will be prepared to plot where the new road will cross the River Spey.
Three public events have been scheduled in Fochabers, Elgin and Forres next week for residents to view the upgrade plans for the A96.
A Transport Scotland spokesman said: “We recognise the contribution local groups can play. We will be setting up community council forums in the coming months to provide regular updates and seek feedback.
“Once set up we will continue to engage with the forums during the design and assessment process.”
