Support for work to continue for delivery of active and sustainable travel initiatives, road safety improvements and public transport projects
The Highland Council's Economy and Infrastructure Committee has agreed to continue supporting the delivery of active and sustainable travel initiatives, road safety improvements and public transport projects across the Highlands following an update on the significant progress made by the Council's Integrated Transport Team.
Discussing a report presented to the Committee earlier today, members noted the successful delivery of a wide range of projects during 2025/26 and welcomed the securing of almost £11 million in external funding to support low-carbon transport infrastructure, active travel networks, road safety improvements and public transport initiatives across the region.
Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, Councillor Ken Gowans, said: "This report demonstrates the real difference that strong partnership working can make for communities across the Highlands. By working closely with other agencies, community transport operators, local stakeholders and funding partners, we have been able to secure significant investment and deliver meaningful improvements that make it easier, safer and more sustainable for people to travel.
"The creation of the new Integrated Transport Team has brought together expertise from across transport disciplines and is helping to deliver a joined-up approach to active travel, public transport and road safety. This is important work that supports our communities, strengthens connectivity, improves accessibility and helps us meet our climate ambitions.
"What is particularly encouraging is that this is not just about what has already been achieved. There is a substantial programme of work now underway and planned for the future, with projects spanning walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure, road safety upgrades, bus network improvements, mobility hubs, ferry services and continued support for air connectivity spread across the Highlands.”
He added: "The Highlands has unique transport challenges, and we know that no single organisation can address them alone. Continued collaboration with our partners will be essential as we work to deliver a transport network that is inclusive, resilient, low-carbon and fit for the future. I am delighted that the Committee supported the continued delivery of these initiatives and the opportunities they will bring for our communities throughout the Highlands."
The report highlighted progress across a broad range of transport projects, including the delivery of new walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure, targeted road safety measures, improvements to public transport services and the ongoing development of strategic transport initiatives.
Members also noted positive progress towards Scotland's 2030 road casualty reduction targets, continued investment in safer road infrastructure and the successful introduction of initiatives aimed at encouraging more sustainable travel choices.
Looking ahead, the Council's Integrated Transport Team will continue to progress major active travel projects, public transport enhancements, community transport partnerships, mobility hub developments and strategic transport priorities set out in the Highland Local Transport Strategy 2025-2035.
The Committee agreed all recommendations within the report, including continued delivery of active and sustainable transport and road safety initiatives aligned with both Council priorities and national transport objectives.
ENDS