Major road repairs, costing nearly £300,000, have been announced to improve the condition of Moray’s busiest route.
The surface on the A96 at the Spynie Kirk junction approaching Elgin has become worn out, with more than 13,000 vehicles using the road every day.
But now, engineers from Bear Scotland will be working for five nights to upgrade the route, commencing tomorrow evening.
The £284,000 project will see a convoy system operating from 7.30pm until 6.30am to restrict the speed of traffic to 10mph between Ardgilzean and Oakwood, west of Elgin, while work crews are busy at the side of the trunk route.
A reduced 30mph limit will be implemented during the day, due to a temporary surface being installed until improvements are finished.
The overnight restrictions are the latest roadworks on the A96 near Elgin, following a series of closures to replace gas mains in the town, which have slowed traffic to a standstill at peak times.
Sections of the existing carriageway that are removed by contractors Breedon Aggregates will be recycled by Sepa.
Yesterday, Bear Scotland confirmed Moray Council and the police had been consulted while the overnight convoys were planned.
Andy Thompson, the firm’s representative for the north-east, said: “These essential resurfacing works will improve the condition of the A96 at this section, creating a smoother and safer journey for motorists.
“We’ve taken steps to minimise disruption as much as possible during these works, including carrying the works out overnight and avoiding working on Friday or Saturday nights.
“We would encourage motorists to plan their journeys in advance and leave some extra time for their journey.”