Motorists have been warned to expect major travel disruption across Perth as vital work begins on one of the city’s busiest commuter routes.
Bear Scotland announced a planned repair programme for the A85 Crieff Road.
Although the work will be carried out overnight to avoid traffic chaos, major disruption is expected with drivers facing extensive detours. During later stages of the project, traffic from Perth to Crieff will be redirected through Auchterarder.
The £440,000 works, aimed at improving surfaces between Perth and Huntingtower, will begin at the end of April.
The project is due to last 10 days and engineers will work on the 1,000 yard stretch overnight.
Bear Scotland said the scheme will improve safety on one of Perth’s main arterial routes.
Further measures, including new toucan crossings, will be installed in the coming weeks.
The trunk road authority’s spokesman Eddie Ross said yesterday: “This essential programme of improvements will upgrade the condition of this busy section of the A85, ensuring it remains in a safe condition for years to come.
“We will do everything possible to minimise disruption when the works get under way, including carrying out the resurfacing at night, avoiding weekends and ensuring that access is maintained to the Tesco superstore at all times.”
Mr Ross said: “We have also given consideration to bus timetables in our programming of the works to further minimise the impact of these vital services.
“We are continuing to consult with community councils, businesses and other stakeholders and welcome their feedback ahead of the improvements. ”
Perth City South councillor Willie Wilson said: “Clearly, this work has got to be done. The repairs appear to be absolutely essential.
“It is obvious that this will cause a good deal of disruption, albeit overnight. My main concern is that local traffic will use residential areas to get around the diversion.”
Councillor Pete Barrett added: “By avoiding both the morning and evening rush hour on the Crieff Road hopefully the inconvenience to residents will be kept to a minimum. The diversions in place are extensive and will require to be clearly signposted.”
The work will involve resurfacing the route from Newhouse roundabout to the east of the Huntingtower junction.
The work will begin on Sunday April 28 and continue for a seven-day period over 10 days between 8pm and 6am.
Bear Scotland is consulting community groups and emergency services about the work.