Dual duel

The Scottish Government plans to spend billions on “upgrading” the A9 by doubling its width to dual carriageway.

When using the A9, I drive within the speed limit. I am invariably overtaken by following vehicles, on both single and dual carriageway sections. Every one of those drivers is probably breaking the speed limit – and the law of the land. In so doing, they may save themselves a few minutes on their journey but they also risk causing collisions, which can impact horribly on themselves, their families, other drivers and the local rescue services.

Are we really going to destroy more landscape and cut down thousands of trees for the benefit of criminals? Imagine the destructive impact of adding two lanes to the road past Blair Atholl, or Dunkeld…

No-one can entirely prevent “accidents” – a driver’s sudden illness at the wheel or freak road conditions – but most of the accidents on the A9 seem to be caused by impatient, dangerous overtaking or falling asleep at the wheel which are entirely avoidable.

Those who choose to break the law should face punishment. A dedicated body of traffic police to enforce the speed limits with heavy fines would also provide local employment, ensure that the road is used safely and save the nation a great deal of money.

Put the blame where it truly lies – not on a beautiful road through some of the finest landscapes in the world, where it is perfectly possible to proceed at legitimate speeds of 60-70mph – but on selfish drivers who have no compunction about breaking the law of the land.

Janet Davidson

Newtonmore

Inverness-shire