A new section of one of the north-east’s busiest roads is due to open tomorrow in a major milestone for Scotland’s biggest road project.
Almost two miles of new carriageway is to be unveiled between Bridgend and Foveran on the A90 Fraserburgh to Dundee road.
The stretch of the A90 between Balmedie and Tipperty is being made a dual carriageway as part of the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR).
It will link up with the new city bypass once the huge transport scheme is completed – due to be by the end of this year.
Drivers will get their first taste of the freshly-laid surface at the weekend – though it will be single carriageway and subject to a 50mph limit for the moment.
Meanwhile, the A90 will also be closed to traffic to and from the B9000 Newburgh to Pitmedden Road, for about eight weeks.
Transport Scotland has said this will allow Aberdeen Roads Limited, the bypass contractor, to construct a new roundabout and an additional carriageway.
A spokesman said: “After this new section of road has been opened by the contractor, which is expected to take place next week, road users will be able to drive over a new 3km section of the A90 for the first time.
“Along with the closure of a section of the existing A90, this will allow the contractor to undertake other key works in the area.
“This new section of road, along with the traffic management measures the contractor will put in place, will bring drivers into close proximity with road workers, so we are strongly encouraging road users to apply more caution than usual when driving through or nearby this section of the A90.
“Road users should also observe the 50mph speed restriction and road signage to enhance their safety, as well as the safety of others.
“We would like to thank road users for their continued patience and support during the construction of this major infrastructure project.”
Diversions will be in place from this week, maps of which can be found by following the links for the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route at www.transport.gov.scot