Developing one of Fife’s busiest roads could improve the regional economy as well as addressing safety concerns, a local MSP has claimed.
Tricia Marwick, representative for Mid Fife and Glenrothes, also said campaigners looking to have the A92 upgraded should diversify their argument if they wish to be successful.
It comes following a meeting between Fife MSPs and the Glenrothes Area Futures Group (GAFG) to discuss matters relating to the route.
Mrs Marwick, along with fellow MSPs Claire Baker, Jayne Baxter and Alex Rowley, all met members of the Futures Group, which has long campaigned for safety improvements to be made at the notorious Balfarg junction.
However, despite sustained efforts to have the route upgraded and even dualled on safety grounds, Mrs Marwick believes this alone might not be a strong enough argument for Transport Scotland.
“Everyone supports the idea of dualling the A92 in principle,” Mrs Marwick told The Courier. “But the campaign has been focused purely on safety issues.
“A long-term economic case needs to be worked up and I support that work by Fife Council.”
The Glenrothes Area Futures Group has long campaigned for improvements on the route, calling for the 1.5-mile stretch of road between the Balfarg and Prestonhall junctions to be dualled.
Following an earlier meeting, David Ross, leader of Fife Council, said his staff are already looking to establish an economic case to support upgrades to the A92. He told The Courier: “We are aware that a meeting was held with MSPs and the Glenrothes Area Futures Group and are encouraged to hear the issue is still being progressed.
“This issue is important to the council, and to ensure the issue is moved forward, I had already asked council officers to look into the economic benefits dualling the A92 will bring to the Fife economy.
“When the report is completed I look forward to discussing the findings with the Glenrothes Area Futures Group and other stakeholders so that together, we can drive improvements on the A92.”