Update 10 June 2025: Works on the A9 at the north end of Helmsdale could not be completed last night (Monday 9 June). Works resume tonight (Tuesday 10 June) and are anticipated to be completed by 6am tomorrow (Wednesday 11 June). Please see new end date below.
Transport Scotland’s operating company, BEAR Scotland, is set to resurface half a kilometre of the A9 at the north end of Helmsdale starting from Sunday 1 June.
The works will take place from Sunday 1 to the morning of Wednesday 11 June, between the hours of 7pm and 6am, subject to weather conditions. No work will be undertaken on Friday and Saturday nights.
To protect both roadworkers and motorists, the A9 will be fully closed during the works due to the narrow width of the carriageway. Amnesty periods will be in place, allowing vehicles to be escorted safely through the site at the following times: 8pm, 9pm, 10pm, 11pm, 12am, 2am, and 4am. Outside of working hours, the A9 will remain open as normal to minimise disruption.
Ian Stewart, BEAR Scotland’s North West Representative said: “This surfacing project on the A9 will address defects and significantly improve the road surface for motorists.
“Overnight closures are essential to ensure the safety of both road workers and drivers, given the narrow widths at this location. We’re minimising disruption by working overnight and providing regular amnesty periods for traffic to pass.
“Our teams will work as quickly and safely as possible, and we thank the local community and road users for their patience while we complete these improvements.”
Access for emergency vehicles will be maintained at all times.
Consultation has been carried out with emergency services and relevant stakeholders to share information about the project in advance.
Real time journey information is available from Traffic Scotland at www.traffic.gov.scot, or on X at @trafficscotland.
Materials removed from the existing carriageway will be recycled using SEPA approved methods.
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