The reduction from 60 to 40mph is needed to protect road users and workers during an upgrade.

At its peak 30% of all premises in Northern Ireland had their power disconnected.

Transport Scotland said rescheduling the current timetable for the project would cause further delays.

As people struggle with the cost of living, shampoo, toothpaste and deodorant can become luxuries.

The total cost of the dualling project was originally estimated to cost £197m.

It was previously hoped the six-mile stretch south of Inverness could be upgraded by the end of 2027.

Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn says a public inquiry “is not the best way to proceed”.

Concerns are being raised about the availability of evening-time public transport in the country.