Inverness show for A9/A96 junction options and new link road
ISSUED BY TRANSPORT SCOTLAND
Transport Scotland is to set out a range of options to help tackle congestion, improve accessibility and support future planned development along the A96.
The proposals go on public display tomorrow (Friday 30 May) in Inshes Church and next Tuesday in Old High Church Halls in Inverness.
The Highland Council will also display information on development opportunities in the Inshes and Raigmore area and the second phase of improvements to the local transport network at Inshes and Old Perth Road.
Commenting on the proposals, Transport Minister Keith Brown said: “An A9/A96 Trunk Link Road was one of the recommendations of the Scottish Government’s Strategic Transport Projects Review. Transport Scotland has been working closely with The Highland Council on this study which has considered how best to separate local car trips from those on longer distance journeys in order to reduce congestion on the A9 and A96 at Raigmore, Inshes and Longman junctions. The study has also looked at how all modes of transport including walking, cycling and public transport can be integrated with each of the proposals.
“The appraisal work is on-going and we are now letting the public see a range of options, in addition to those previously presented in 2012, which are aimed at addressing the problems and opportunities within the study area. These options include junction improvements and additional links across the A9.
“We are also proposing grade separation of the A9/A82 Longman junction along with three possible options for a new single carriageway link road. When combined with the new Longman Junction each of the options offers significant improvements to those travelling on the key strategic routes of the A82, A9 and A96.
“I hope that everyone with an interest in this new link road will take the opportunity to come along to the public exhibitions and comment on our proposals.”
Leader of the City of Inverness Area, Councillor Ian Brown said: “Highland Council and Transport Scotland are actively encouraging people to positively engage in this consultation process.
“Many people live, work and access services in the Inshes and Raigmore area, but it’s also a vitally important transport corridor. At this ‘Issues and Options’ stage the Council are consulting on options for local infrastructure improvements and future development in the area. We will be taking all comments received into account to help us prepare a Development Brief to guide what can happen in the future, and to help draw up more detailed proposals for the junction improvements. Everyone’s comments are welcome.”
ENDS