The project had originally been due to complete by the end of 2017 but factors including poor weather, the collapse of construction partner Carillion and, most recently, defects discovered on a structure over the Don Crossing set back progress.

The opening of the final 7.5km section of the scheme between Craibstone and Parkhill comes after contractor the Aberdeen Roads consortium provided the necessary technical assurances for repairs carried out to this structure.

“This new section of the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route between Parkhill and Craibstone now allows the full benefits of this transformational project to be fully realised,” said Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary of Transport, Infrastructure & Connectivity Michael Matheson.

The 58km scheme is due to improve journey times in and around Aberdeen by relieving congestion on local roads and existing trunk roads, including the A90. It is also expected to bring economic benefits to the north east of Scotland.

Aberdeenshire Council leader Jim Gifford said: “This is the moment we’ve all been waiting for. There have certainly been challenges along the way but we must now focus on the benefits we are already beginning to enjoy in terms of improved connectivity and reduced congestion, as well as the opportunities the route presents to existing and new businesses.”

Aberdeen City Council co-leader Douglas Lumsden added: “The improved connectivity will touch all of our communities and is something Aberdeen has craved for generations.”

(Photograph: Transport Scotland)