Works on A9 paused for bonfire night and Enchanted Forest to avoid traffic jams

Works on the A9 are to be paused to avoid traffic disruption to a woodland visitor attraction and bonfire night events.

Roadworks focusing on relocating a high pressure gas pipeline on the road have caused delays of more than two hours for people attending the Enchanted Forest in Pitlochry.

Following complaints, and with the event hosting its final weekend alongside people travelling to and from bonfire night events, the Scottish Gas Network said the A9 will be fully open from Friday until Sunday night.

The gas supply firm said the “critical” work on the pipeline would resume on Monday and continue until its completion in March.

More than 80,000 people a year visit the Enchanted Forest sound and light show. Enchanted Forest

An SGN spokesperson said: “Our critical work at the A9 involves the relocation of a high pressure pipeline to ensure a safe and reliable gas supply to thousands of homes across the region, including Birnam, Logierait, Dunkeld, Aberfeldy and Pitlochry.

“We appreciate that motorists have been experiencing significant delays since phase two of our urgent works began on October 23 and we’ve implemented additional measures to reduce disruption as the work progresses.

“After listening to feedback from customers and our stakeholders, we’ve decided to pause work later this week.

“This will enable easier travel for those attending bonfire night events and the final weekend of the Enchanted Forest before we move into the next section of our project at the A9.

“The A9 will be fully opened temporarily from Friday until Sunday night. Our work will resume first thing Monday morning and continue until completion in March 2024.

“Once again, we are very sorry for the inconvenience being caused.”