Inverness Chamber of Commerce and Moray Chamber of Commerce have jointly written to Scottish Government Transport Secretary, Fiona Hyslop, urging a clear and ambitious timetable for the full dualling of the A96.
The letter, sent on behalf of businesses across the A96 corridor, highlights growing frustration over the lack of progress on upgrading this vital transport route, which connects Inverness and Aberdeen. The Chambers argue that continued delays are constraining economic growth, increasing congestion, and jeopardising safety on one of Scotland’s most significant arterial roads.
The business organisations are calling for a firm commitment to:
- A definitive timetable for full dualling of the A96, including bypasses for Elgin and Keith.
- Dual carriageway bypasses for Nairn, Elgin, and Keith to maximise connectivity and safety.
- Delivery of promised rail service improvements on the Aberdeen-Inverness line by 2030.
Colin Marr, Chief Executive of Inverness Chamber of Commerce, said, “The A96 is a critical link for businesses and communities in the north of Scotland. We welcome the inclusion of the Inverness to Nairn dualling in the National Transport Strategy Delivery Plan, however, we need a firm commitment from the Scottish Government to deliver on its promises for full dualling of the A96 to ensure this region has the infrastructure it needs to thrive. This route plays a vital role in supporting Scotland’s transition to renewable energy, facilitating the movement of materials and workforce between our traditional oil and gas sector and the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport which will deliver the bulk of the UKs future offshore wind developments, and key onshore renewable projects. With that traffic set to increase we need quick and firm action now so this route is fit for purpose, helping the Highlands and Moray achieve its potential.”
Sarah Medcraf, Chief Executive of Moray Chamber of Commerce, added, “Businesses rely on the A96 for trade, connectivity, and growth. We’ve already lost a decade due to inactivity which has stifled the potential for economic growth. So now, we need action – not more delays. The full dualling of this route is essential for safety, economic development, and Scotland’s transition to renewable energy. We stand ready to engage with the Transport Secretary and her teams to ensure that this critical infrastructure delivers maximum benefits to our businesses and communities.”
The Chambers are urging businesses and individuals to take part in the A96 Corridor Review Consultation to ensure their voices are heard. Feedback can be submitted via the online survey here.
You can read the letter in full here:
Fiona Hyslop MSP
Cabinet Secretary for Transport
The Scottish Government
Dear Ms Hyslop,
Subject: Urgent Call for Full Dualling of the A96
We write jointly representing the business voice across the A96 to urge the Scottish Government to reaffirm its commitment to the full dualling of the A96, and to deliver a clear, ambitious timetable for these critical upgrades.
The A96 remains an essential artery for the economic and social wellbeing of our communities in the Highlands and Moray. Its role in connecting Inverness and Aberdeen – the two largest cities in the north of Scotland – is pivotal for regional prosperity, safety, and sustainability. However, as journey times extend and traffic congestion grows, the lack of progress on this vital project is causing increasing frustration and economic constraint.
We welcome the commitment to upgrade the A96, as well as the inclusion of the Inverness to Nairn dualling in the National Transport Strategy Delivery Plan. However, without clear timelines, the lack of progress on subsequent phases, including bypasses for Elgin and Keith, undermines the potential for meaningful change.
We strongly advocate the following:
- A Firm Timetable: As with the A9, the Government must provide a definitive timeline for the delivery of the A96 dualling project, from Inverness to Aberdeen. This must include specific milestones for the completion of each section, including the necessary bypasses for Elgin and Keith. Clear dates will demonstrate that this remains a national priority and is not subject to further delays.
- Dual Carriageway Bypasses: The proposed bypasses for Nairn, Elgin, and Keith must be constructed to a dual carriageway standard to ensure the full safety, connectivity, and economic benefits of the project are realised. A clear schedule for these bypasses is essential to maintain momentum and ensure communities benefit from improved transport links as soon as possible.
- Rail Service Commitments: The promised improvements to rail services on the Aberdeen to Inverness line must not be overlooked. Since 2008, average journey times have marginally worsened, and the lack of a robust service undermines the attractiveness of rail as a viable alternative. A clear timetable for implementing hourly services and frequency improvements must be outlined, with full delivery by 2030.
- The Keith Bypass should follow, ensuring it aligns with the agreed route and dual carriageway standards.
The current A96 is unable to effectively accommodate the high volumes of agricultural and HGV traffic, resulting in increased congestion, driver frustration, and significant safety risks. Dualling will provide overtaking opportunities, reduce accidents, and improve overall road efficiency.
The lost decade of inactivity has stifled the potential for economic growth. From supporting ScotWind and Renewable Energy projects to linking Freeport opportunities in Inverness and Moray with the North Sea’s traditional oil and gas industry, the A96 is critical infrastructure. The route also plays a vital role in supporting Scotland’s transition to renewable energy, facilitating the movement of materials and workforce between the Green Freeport, offshore wind developments, and key onshore renewable projects. Additionally, as we strive to decarbonise transport, an upgraded A96 will enable the uptake of electric vehicles along this essential route.
This project represents not just a transportation upgrade but an investment in our shared future. The Highlands and Moray regions are key contributors to Scotland’s economy, and the full dualling of the A96 will unlock opportunities for growth, sustainability, and resilience.
We stand ready to engage with you and your teams to ensure that this critical infrastructure delivers maximum benefits to our businesses and communities. We look forward to hearing from you.
Yours sincerely,
Colin Marr, Chief Executive Office, Inverness Chamber of Commerce
Sarah Medcraf, Chief Executive Officer, Moray Chamber of Commerce