A dual carriageway between A74(M) and A75 is being studied

Dumfries and Galloway Council wants the A709 to be upgraded and has passed its recommendation to the south of Scotland transport partnership.

The local enterprise company, the NHS and the Elderly Forum in the area have already expressed support.

Councillors believe the link could play a major part in boosting the economy in south west Scotland.

Tory councillor Allan Wright has been a long-standing supporter of the project.

'Really heartened'

"I do think that the dualling of the road between the bypass and the A74(M) is one of the best things we could do for the commercial aspects of this region," he said.

"To speed the flow of traffic from here into England and other places is just paramount for here."

Mr Wright said the proposal had been on the cards for some time but environmental concerns meant it had been put on hold.

He was glad to see it being taken to the south of Scotland partnership for consideration in their regional transport strategy.

"I am really, really heartened that it is back on the agenda," he said.