A9 road (Scotland)

The A9 is a major road in Scotland, running from Falkirk in central Scotland to Scrabster Harbour, Thurso, in the far north. It is the longest road in Scotland, with a length of approximately 273 miles (439 km). It follows a generally north-south route, connecting the Central Belt with the Highlands and the far north.

The road's history dates back to the military roads built by General Wade in the 18th century, though much of the modern route was constructed and improved in the 20th century. Significant upgrades have taken place over the years, but sections, particularly north of Perth, remain single carriageway.

Key towns and cities connected by the A9 include Stirling, Perth, Pitlochry, Aviemore, Inverness, and Thurso. The road serves as a vital transport link for communities in the Highlands, facilitating tourism, commerce, and access to essential services. It traverses diverse landscapes, from agricultural lowlands to mountainous regions.

The A9 has a reputation for being a challenging road, particularly the single carriageway sections which are subject to overtaking accidents. Safety improvements, including average speed cameras and improved road markings, have been implemented in recent years to reduce accidents. The road remains a topic of ongoing debate regarding further upgrades and improvements to enhance safety and efficiency. It is an important route for both local traffic and long-distance travellers.