The contract has been awarded through the Scape National Civil Engineering and Infrastructure framework.

Works will include on-site sampling and testing to establish ground conditions and inform the ongoing design of the project, which on completion will support growth in Scotland’s third fastest developing region.

This is the second of four phases of the Perth Transport Futures Project which aims to alleviate congestion, enhance accessibility to the city and unlock significant economic growth for the local economy.

Hector MacAulay, Balfour Beatty’s regional managing director for Scotland & Ireland, said: “I am delighted that Balfour Beatty has been awarded this commission to commence ground investigation works on the Cross Tay Link Road for the Perth Transport Futures Scheme.

“Procured through the Scape National Civil Engineering and Infrastructure framework, we will continue to work in close collaboration with Perth and Kinross Council to help deliver this exciting scheme; engaging with local suppliers and subcontractors, to provide real sustainable benefit to the local economy.”

The ground investigation works for Phase 2 have already commenced on-site, and are expected to complete in Autumn this year.

Victoria Brambini, managing director of Scape Procure, said: “Balfour Beatty’s appointment to the second phase of the Perth Transport Futures Project is fantastic news. The team has worked closely with Perth and Kinross Council during the delivery of the first phase and this collaborative working is set to continue as the next important stage of the project begins.

“Improving transport links in Scotland is key to creating a stronger and more connected Britain, and ground investigation works is a vital part of this process. By procuring the works through our framework, communities and businesses in Perth and Kinross will also benefit throughout the construction phase as Balfour Beatty utilises the local supply chain and creates training and apprenticeship opportunities for local people.”