Works start Monday 15 November for five nights.

A section of the A96 near Allanfearn is to benefit from surfacing improvements worth £180,000 with work set to get underway on Monday 15 November.

The improvements will address defects in the road surface on the A96 east of Allanfearn, creating a safer and smoother road surface for motorists.

The project is expected to get underway on Monday 15 November and is programmed to take place over five nights. The improvements will be carried out between 7pm and 6am each night, with surfacing due to be completed by 6am on Saturday 20 November.

To ensure the safety of roadworkers as well as motorists, a lane closure with a 10mph convoy system will be in place during working hours. The convoy system will be removed during the day however due to the nature of the works, one lane of the A96 will remain closed and temporary traffic lights will be in place during the week.

Consultation has taken place with all relevant stakeholders in advance of the surfacing improvements to make them aware of the traffic management arrangements.

Commenting on the improvements, Ian Stewart, BEAR Scotland’s North East Unit Representative, said: “This surfacing project near Allanfearn has been designed to improve the general condition and safety of this section of the A96 for motorists.

“The traffic management is essential for everyone’s safety and due to the nature of the works the temporary traffic lights will have to remain in place so motorists should regrettably expect some delays.

“We thank motorists for the patience in advance while our teams carry out these essential improvements on the A96. We encourage them to plan their journeys in advance by checking the Traffic Scotland website for up to date travel information and allow some extra time to reach their destination.”

Real-time journey planning information can be obtained by visiting www.trafficscotland.org, twitter at @trafficscotland or via the new mobile site my.trafficscotland.org.

Materials removed from the existing carriageway will be recycled using SEPA approved methods.