Fresh doubts over A9 dualling 2035 deadline amid private finance cost fears as Scottish Government reportedly feels it is not value for money

Fresh doubts over A9 dualling 2035 deadline

The long-delayed A9 dualling project between Perth and Inverness faces new uncertainty after reports suggested that the Scottish Government might abandon private financing due to cost concerns.

Government reconsidering private funding

According to The Scotsman, officials concluded that the private finance option does not represent good value for taxpayers. This decision could delay the project beyond the government’s 2035 target for completing the full upgrade of the A9.

A government spokesperson confirmed that alternative funding models are under review but stressed a continued commitment to complete the dualling in stages.

“We remain fully committed to improving the A9 corridor, but we need to ensure that every pound is spent wisely,” said the spokesperson.

Industry reaction

Contractors and transport experts warned that withdrawing from private financing could create further delays and uncertainty for companies involved in planning and construction. Critics have urged ministers to provide a clear timeline and funding strategy to restore confidence.

Public concern

The A9, one of Scotland’s most important transport routes, has long been criticized for safety issues and heavy traffic. Local communities are worried that prolonged indecision will stall economic growth and compromise road safety improvements promised over a decade ago.

“People are losing patience. We were told this would be done years ago,” said a resident near Pitlochry.

Context

The £3 billion scheme is intended to convert the route from single to dual carriageway along nearly 110 miles. Only a fraction of the project has been completed to date, with progress slowed by rising costs, logistical challenges, and political scrutiny.

Author’s summary:
Fresh doubts over the A9 dualling project highlight Scotland’s infrastructure funding challenges as the government reassesses costly private finance options.

Inverness Courier — 2025-12-01