Members' Business: The Maybole Bypass and South Scotland Road Infrastructure

That the Parliament welcomes the upcoming announcement from the Scottish Government regarding which company has won the contract to carry out the five-mile stretch of off-line bypass and associated junctions for the South Scotland town of Maybole; understands that this decision will be based on one of four already shortlisted companies, Farrans Roadbridge, John Paul Construction, R J McLeod and Wills Bros; notes that this stretch of road will separate local road users from those travelling longer distances, including to the ports, which will therefore minimise disruption from heavy traffic in Maybole; considers that this stretch of bypass will significantly improve road safety and journey time reliability; congratulates the Scottish Government on achieving what it considers this landmark step for the infrastructure in South Scotland, while understanding that more investment on other roads in the region, such as the A75 and A77, is also needed in order to improve safety, journey times and to bring about business that will see a much needed boost to the rural and local economy of the south west of Scotland; acknowledges the work of the Maybole Bypass Committee members past and present, local residents and businesses who have tirelessly dedicated themselves to many years of campaigning to secure the bypass, and commends both the A75 and A77 action groups for their continued efforts to bring about positive change in the region.