Local MP Alister Jack has urged the Scottish Government’s new Transport Minister to become directly involved progressing improvements to the A75 and A77.
The Scottish Secretary, who represents Dumfries and Galloway constituency, believes a more pro-active approach at Holyrood could see vital projects delivered sooner on the key trunk routes.
Mr Jack has written to Kevin Stewart, an Aberdeen MSP selected for the transport role by new First Minister Humza Yousaf, to congratulate him on his appointment.
He also took the opportunity to highlight a report jointly published last week by Dumfries and Galloway Council and partner local authorities in south west Scotland and Northern Ireland showing dualling both routes would deliver £5 billion of ‘positive benefits’ to the UK economy.
The major investment would bring improvements including reduced journey times and vehicle operating costs of £700m and combined CO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) savings of around £95m.
Mr Jack pointed out that a clear benefit for his constituents would be much improved road safety on the routes, a wider boost to quality of life and in areas such as tourism and hospitality. He stated amongst his initial priorities would be by-passes for Crocketford and Springholm and increased investment in the A77.
In his letter to Mr Stewart, the MP wrote: “Quite simply, there is an economic imperative to upgrade these roads.
“As Sir Peter Hendy identified in the UK Government’s Union Connectivity Review, the A75 is a crucial freight link with two in three heavy goods vehicles travelling via the ports at Cairnryan, some to and from England.
“My constituents have waited too long for these roads to be upgraded and I was delighted that in last year’s autumn statement, the Chancellor of the Exchequer announced development funding for options to improve the A75.”
However, explained Mr Jack, completion of a business case by the Scottish Government would be a key component for projects to progress on the A75.
Mr Jack concluded in his letter to the Minister: “I would be grateful if you could provide an update on this matter and reassurance that this will remain a focus for you and the Scottish Government.”