The contract, awarded under the Scape Group’s National Civil Engineering and Infrastructure Framework, will create a new grade separated junction on the A9 dual carriageway as well as a new link road enabling access to development land to the west of the city.

It marks the first of four phases of the Perth Transport Futures project, which aims to ease congestion and access to the city, while unlocking an estimated £500m of economic growth for the local economy.

Balfour Beatty have worked in collaboration with Perth and Kinross Council since December 2015 to draw up the most cost effective design.

Hector Macaulay, Balfour Beatty Regional managing director, Scotland, said: “Through the Scape framework we have had the opportunity to collaborate with the Council at an early stage, and ultimately provide Perth and Kinross Council with price certainty and best value.

Furthermore, delivery of this project will provide significant opportunities for local sub-contractors and suppliers, ensuring that the Perth and Kinross community not only benefits from greatly improved infrastructure, but also from the added economic benefit delivered through this scheme.”

Works are due to start in September, with completion expected in Spring 2019. The scheme will employ around 100 people and will provide a number of apprenticeship opportunities.