Contracts worth a total of almost £60 million have been awarded on two road infrastructure projects by Transport Scotland.

Agreements have been made with Farrans Construction and RJ McLeod for work on the £49.5 million Haudagain Improvement scheme in Aberdeen and the £9.6 million Berriedale Braes project on the A9 in Caithness, respectively.

Work on the projects is expected to begin later this year.

Transport Secretary Michael Matheson said: “Transport infrastructure is a key area where improving connectivity between our cities, rural communities and centres of economic activity is vital to boosting productivity and competitiveness.

“The contracts awarded this week will be a welcome boost, providing opportunities for the construction industry.”