Update on traffic management in Caol as flood protection works continue
As work on the new £11m flood protection scheme at Caol and Lochyside continues, The Highland Council and the contractor RJ McLeod are working hard to ensure that any disruption for the local community is kept to a minimum.
The new 1.2km flood embankment will run along the shores of Loch Linnhe from the Caledonian Canal embankment to the Caol Spit and an 800m flood wall will be constructed up the side of the River Lochy adjacent to the road and finishing at Soldier’s Bridge.
Enhanced environmental benefits to the wider community will be included as part of the works with improved access to the towpath at the Caledonian Canal and improved walking and cycling routes along the length of the scheme with planting, seating, paths and a play area.
The installation of road drainage and a new watermain continues to progress well along Kilmallie Road. The intention is to complete the current section under the traffic management past Riverside Park and temporarily reinstate the road carriageway to allow the traffic management to be removed for the forthcoming holiday period.
The site is closed for the Christmas / New Year holiday from Friday 24 December until Monday 10 January.
On the return to work on Monday 10 January the traffic management will be reinstated for the next phase which will be across the Old School Court junction, again requiring 3-way temporary traffic lights.
During these works the bus stop opposite Old School Court junction will be temporarily relocated. A temporary bus stop will be installed under a short stretch of traffic management on the week commencing Monday 20 December.
As for work along Erracht Terrace and Glenmallie Road, road drainage is required to be installed around the corner of Erracht Terrace / Glenmallie Road. Work is scheduled to start on Monday 10 January and is expected to last 6 weeks. During this time a temporary road closure with diversion via Glendessary Street will be in place. However, access will be maintained at all times for pedestrians, emergency vehicles and vehicles to/from Caol Spit treatment works.
The Council and representatives from RJ McLeod are keeping the community updated regarding traffic management issues and construction progress. Also regular community liaison meetings with representatives from Caol and Lochyside take place. The minutes and presentations for these meetings are available on the Council’s website along with the current Traffic Management Plan and Landscape Plans. https://www.highland.gov.uk/caolandlochysidefloodprotection