Perthshire North MSP, John Swinney, has welcomed the Scottish Government’s decision to avoid the site of the Enchanted Forest during the dualling of the A9.
The proposed section of road, between Pitlochry and Killiecrankie, will not interfere with the existing site of the Enchanted Forest, a move that Mr Swinney has praised as being “sensible and practical” for the local economy.
Commenting on the news, Mr Swinney said:
“I am very pleased that the Scottish Government has listened to the concerns of local people, and business owners, regarding this section of the A9.
The Enchanted Forest is an excellent attraction that encourages tens of thousands of people to the area, every year. The significant, positive effect that this event has on the local economy makes it entirely sensible, and practical, to avoid this area when dualling the A9.
“I am well aware that the local community – including business owners and other residents – were keen to see this outcome. I am delighted that they will be able to celebrate this result and that the Enchanted Forest event will be able to continue in its current home, for the foreseeable future.”
The new, preferred route for the stretch of road between Pitlochry and Killiecrankie will be displayed in Pitlochry Town Hall this Wednesday 9 November (3pm – 7pm) and Thursday 10 November (11am – 4pm).
In an announcement made by Keith Brown MSP, Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Jobs and Fair Work, it was announced that the new, preferred option should result in less disruption for road users during construction as no new bridge will be required over Loch Faskally. It is also anticipated that the new option will be less expensive than alternative options.
Notes:
For further comment from the Scottish Government, and additional background information, please see the following:
http://news.gov.scot/news/a9-dualling-to-avoid-enchanted-forest
