AN MSP has called for major improvements to the ‘woefully inadequate’ A77 road after being left frustrated by the lack of investment in the regions infrastructure.

South Scotland MSP Emma Harper has taken called for urgent action to be taken and has demanded Holyrood’s Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee to conduct an inquiry into the matter.

Ms Harper has battled for change through several meetings, debates and raised numerous parliamentary questions on the matter. Now she wants constituents across the region to back her calls for an inquiry by writing to the commitee to reaffirm their support and raise the issue.

Ms Harper has created a draft letter which can be found on her social media for constituents to use, should they wish. A copy of the letter sent by her to the committee is also available.

Commenting, Ms Harper said:“I believe passionately that the Scottish Government has a track record of delivering policies which improve the lives of people and communities across Scotland. However, I do share the view of many in our region that investment in our transport infrastructure – namely the A75 and A77 – has been woefully inadequate.”

Her calls have been backed by SNP Councillor Peter Henderson, he said: “The urgent need to address the roads infrastructure in the South West has lacked attention for too long. The A77 and A75 are vital links for the area in order to attract and develop industry, improve tourism and improve road safety.

“A major problem is that during the frequent closures of the A77 due to accidents or maintenance is that large volumes of traffic are diverted onto minor roads never designed for the large vehicles. These diversions are extremely long and time consuming and the current infrastructure is not designed to cope. The South West requires the infrastructure now and South Ayrshire Council are happy to support future development and always have been”