A9 dualling framework enters final procurement stage

Transport Scotland has entered the final stage of procurement for a £1.94bn framework agreement covering the remaining sections of the A9 Dualling Programme between Perth and Inverness.

image: A9 Dual

Five contractors have been invited to tender for the framework following the completion of the initial prequalification stage. The shortlisted firms are Balfour Beatty Morrison Construction, Graham, Hochtief (UK) Construction, Kier Transportation and Wills Brothers Civil Engineering.

The framework is expected to be concluded by the end of 2026 and will provide the procurement route for the remaining five A9 dualling projects. Transport Scotland said it is intended to provide a longer-term pipeline of work and greater visibility of upcoming projects for the construction supply chain.

The first project expected to be procured through the framework is the Dalraddy to Slochd section, covering around 23 miles (37km). The project includes the replacement of three existing at-grade junctions serving Aviemore, Granish and Carrbridge with grade-separated junctions.

The framework will cover approximately 58 miles (93km) of the A9 still to enter procurement. It follows the Scottish Government's revised delivery approach for the programme, with the remaining sections to be delivered through capital-funded design-and-build or similar contracts.

The wider programme involves upgrading 83 miles (133km) of the A9 between Perth and Inverness. The Scottish Government is targeting completion of the full programme by the end of 2035.

Two sections of the route are already operating as dual carriageway, while two further sections are under construction. The Pitlochry to Killiecrankie section is also in procurement, with contract award expected in autumn 2026.

Transport Scotland's current delivery plan envisages the proportion of the route operating as dual carriageway increasing to 50% by the end of 2030, 67% by 2032 and 91% by 2034, ahead of full completion in 2035.