Charging ahead with Dalry Bypass

Using low emission vehicles in major roads projects is a key example of how public sector procurement can support the Scottish Government’s ambition to phase out the need for new petrol and diesel cars by 2032. 

For the first time, Transport Scotland has stipulated the use of a number of electric and low-emission vehicles by its site monitoring team on a major road construction contract bringing benefits to the environment while lowering fuel costs for contractors and public sector fleets. 

Following a visit to the A737 Dalry Bypass construction site, Minister for Transport, Humza Yousaf provided a video message and undertook a trip in one of the site’s low-emission vehicles. 

He said: 

“I am delighted to see the continued progress on the Dalry Bypass with work clearly visible across the route. This is a key improvement to the road network in the southwest of Scotland and it is encouraging to see the use of electric and low-emission vehicles here on site.

“We have committed to phase out the need for new petrol and diesel cars by 2032 and we continue our efforts to transform public sector fleets and rollout the use of electric and low-emission vehicles where possible on future road construction projects.”

The A737 Dalry Bypass, which is being constructed by Contractor Farrans Roadbridge Joint Venture will encourage improved economic and employment opportunities through more reliable journey times for motorists and businesses along the length of the A737. In addition, the Dalry Bypass will help separate local and strategic traffic, leading to improved safety for both rural road users and communities. Completion is expected by the end of 2019.