A local MSP will meet Scotland’s new Transport Minister to discuss upgrading the A75 next month.
Galloway and West Dumfries MSP Finlay Carson has secured talks with Kevin Stewart, who took over from Jenny Gilruth last month.
The pair will meet on May 4 to look at upgrading the road, including a bypass around Crocketford and Springholm.
Mr Carson said: “I am pleased that the new minister has recognised both the urgency and importance that the A75 plays. Hopefully he will be supportive in ensuring that improvements are carried out as quickly as possible.
“He will know, of course, that previous Transport Ministers have promised action but, sadly, failed to deliver. I will be encouraging him to act more positively and hopefully drive this project forward.
“I will remind the minister that both the Scottish and UK Governments are working collaboratively to improve transport connectivity across the south west corner, including a feasibility study into options to improve the A75.
“Transport Scotland and officials from the Department of Transport are presently working on a business plan that will be presented to HM Treasury for final approval. I am hopeful the new minister will encourage this as much as possible.”
A recently published report claimed upgrading the A75 and A77 could boost the UK’s economy by £5 billion.
Plans to upgrade the A75 are included in both the second version of the Scottish Government’s strategic transport review and the UK Government’s Union Connectivity Review.
Scottish Secretary Alister Jack is encouraged by the “constructive tone” of a letter he received from Mr Stewart regarding the A75 and A77.
The Dumfries and Galloway MP said: “My constituents in south west Scotland have waited too long for these roads to be upgraded and I was delighted that in last year’s autumn statement, the Chancellor of the Exchequer announced development funding for options to improve the A75, pending a business case from the Scottish Government.
“I have long been clear that the way to improve the A75, a road I travel frequently, is for the Scottish Government to work with the UK Government. I am glad the new Holyrood administration has moved away from previous resistance to joining forces.”
