Calls have been made to invest in improved public transport instead of fully dualling the A96.
Earlier this week Moray Chamber of Commerce and Inverness Chamber of Commerce called for SNP Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop to release a definitive timetable for the road’s dualling.
The chambers argue that continued delays are causing “economic constraint”, increasing congestion and jeopardising safety.
However, Highlands and Islands MSP Arianne Burgess (Scottish Greens) says dualling the road “contradicts efforts to reduce car usage and address the climate crisis”.
She argues that investment should instead be made in improving public transport.
She said: “While I understand and respect the business community's concerns, and echo their calls for people to respond to the consultation, there is a strong economic and climate case for investing in public transport and active travel on this route.
“Investing in public transport and active travel not only supports our climate goals but also offers significant economic benefits.
“I fully support targeted safety improvements, such as reducing speed limits through communities like Brodie, to enhance road safety without the need for full dualling.
“The Scottish Government has been warned that it stands no prospect of meeting its goal of reducing car travel by 20 per cent by 2030 if it continues to prioritise road expansion over sustainable transport solutions.
“Dualling major roads contradicts our efforts to reduce car usage and address the climate crisis.
“Instead, let's invest in a comprehensive transport solution that connects these communities by bus and rail, making travel safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly.
“This is also likely to be quicker and less disruptive to deliver – meaning we can improve the local economy faster than a full dualling programme.”
Ms Burgess’ comments come after it was revealed that a timeline for dualling the A96 between Inverness and Nairn will take at least a year to be published.
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