Two potential routes north of Inverurie have dropped out of contention for the 26-mile stretch.

The change follows opposition from farmers and local residents over routes skirting the north of the town.

The remaining options for the route are a single corridor to the south of Inverurie and one to the north.

Transport Scotland hopes to identify a preferred option by the end of the year.

Cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity, Michael Matheson, said: “The Scottish Government has given a clear commitment to dual the A96 which will see delivery of around 88 miles of upgraded road between Inverness and Aberdeen, a huge task but one we are committed to delivering.

“As part of that dualling programme, we are taking forward the design work for the 26 mile stretch of the route between Huntly and Aberdeen. Having let local communities see and comment on a series of options last October, we have now reduced the number of options for this challenging section of the A96 and have made some changes to the options being taken forward as a result of the feedback we have received.

“The preferred option will be comprised of a combination of the remaining sections to form a continuous route between Huntly and Aberdeen.

“I would encourage anyone with an interest in this scheme to visit one of the drop-ins from 28-31 May to view our plans for the scheme and give us their views. The vital feedback we receive will help inform the design and assessment work as we look to identify a preferred option by the end of this year.”