Discussions with local communities, road users and other stakeholders have resulted in the following route option elements no longer being considered:

Additional design refinements have also been made to the remaining options. At the same time the design work will continue in order to identify a preferred option to be announced later this year.

Cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity, Michael Matheson, said: “The Scottish Government has given a clear commitment to dual the A96. When completed this ambitious £3 billion programme will deliver around 88 miles of upgraded road between Inverness and Aberdeen, a huge task but one we are relishing.

“Dualling the A96 requires careful, in-depth planning and design so that we deliver the right scheme and help tackle congestion, make journey times more reliable and, crucially, improve road safety.

“It is important that we listen to all stakeholders including landowners and members of the public as we progress the design work for this section of the A96 between Hardmuir and Fochabers. The refinements to the remaining options have been informed by that vital feedback.

“We want to ensure that everyone living on or near the options under consideration is aware of these changes which can be viewed on the scheme’s web page.

“I would encourage everyone with an interest in this important scheme to view the changes and have their say as we look to identify a preferred option for the scheme later this year.”