Public advised to follow safety signs as works on West Link 2 progress
The Highland Council is advising walkers and cyclists using the Caledonian Canal towpaths that temporary diversions will be in place on a section of the route while work on Stage 2 of the Inverness West Link continues.
People using the tow paths, between Torvean Bridge in the west to Inverness Rowing Club, will notice signs going up providing information on diversions that will be in place next month for safety reasons while work to install a new swing bridge crossing is underway.
The tow path forms part of the Great Glen Way long distance route and walkers are asked to follow the diversion that will be clearly signposted.
The contract to construct Stage 2 of the Inverness West Link has been awarded to RJ McLeod (Contractors) Ltd and works include a roundabout, realignment of General Booth Road onto the A82, and an additional bridge across the Caledonian Canal.
This new bridge working in tandem with the existing Torvean Swing Bridge will allow continuous free flow of vehicles on the A82 and a new control building will manage the operation of both bridges.
The temporary diversions will be in place until the end of February next year. During this time piling will take place in the drained section of the canal in preparation for the new bridge.
Arrangements have been made so the Rowing Club Regatta can take place on the 9th and 10th of November with no disruption.
Local Councillor Graham Ross said: “The work has been planned carefully to keep any disruption to a minimum so I want to thank people for their understanding. This is a major piece of engineering work and involves draining a section of the Caledonian Canal before installing the new swing bridge. The signs going up are to protect the safety of the workers and the safety of cyclists and walkers using the route so I ask everyone to be extra aware and to follow the diversions.”
The Phase 2 works are programmed to be complete in December 2020.