Council reviews traffic calming measures in Dingwall

The Highland Council is currently rolling out a programme of interventions aimed at encouraging active travel whilst social distancing in Highland towns as part of the Scottish Government’s Spaces for People project.

Spaces for People is funded by Scottish Government and managed by Sustrans Scotland, Spaces for People is a temporary infrastructure programme in Scotland offering funding and support to make it safer for people who choose to walk, cycle or wheel for permitted journeys and exercise, whilst physical distancing is in place during Covid-19 and as we transition out of lockdown.

The fund was opened at the end of April, and guidance was provided as to the sort of interventions that would be considered for funding, speed limits and 20mph schemes were specifically included.  A 20mph scheme has the benefit of reduced vehicle speeds that provide a safer environment and also encouragement to use active travel means such as walking and cycling.

The 20mph scheme in Dingwall was well developed having neared the end of the consultation period, and there was the knowledge that the scheme – if submitted and successful to Spaces for People could be rapidly rolled out.  The bid for Dingwall was successful and work has been implemented.

Following some comments about the works taking place in Dingwall, a review, including local members is underway.

The Council’s Head of Infrastructure Colin Howell said: “All of the actions we are taking under the Spaces for People project are progressed under temporary powers and we have the ability to quickly amend and change proposals.

“20mph signs in isolation are not sufficient to reduce traffic speeds and change driver behaviour which is why traffic management measures are vital to the success of 20mph areas.

“Following installation of the traffic island on the Back Road we have received some comments and concerns and we are making  changes in response to this feedback. This proves that our process of rapid roll out and reacting to comment is working and we are thankful for the feedback and encourage engagement with all of our interventions both in Dingwall and across the Highlands.”

The traffic island will be moved 9 metres.  The new location will mean that drivers at the give way will have a clear line of sight towards the junction with the A834 Strathpeffer Road and benefit from improved visibility on the approach. 

Following representations made to members on the traffic management measures a ward business meeting was convened, and agreement over the appropriate action could not be achieved.  All the traffic management measures will be reviewed by Highland Council Engineers following a 2 week bedding in period, and a paper will be taken to the next Black Isle, Dingwall and Seaforth Committee in October, where a committee decision can be considered in the light of the effectiveness of the measures and the comments from the public.

Anyone can provide comments, both positive and negative to all the works taking place to improve active travel by visiting the Spaces For People consultation portal which is available on the Council’s website https://consult.highland.gov.uk/kse/