Temporary traffic arrangements in the city centre following Academy Street fire

Following the fire on Academy Street in Inverness the Multi Agency Response Team, which includes representatives from Police Scotland, The Highland Council, Inverness BID, Stagecoach, Structural Engineers and other partners has been put into effect.  

Structural information has been obtained which has confirmed that, due to its condition, the building the fire broke out in requires scaffolding to be erected around it to make it safe. In order to carry out this work Academy Street from Union Street to Margaret’s Street will remain closed to all traffic and pedestrians until at least the start of next week.  

Multi-agency partners are continuing to work together to minimise disruption to businesses in the area and the local community where possible.  

In an effort to try to get traffic flow back into the city in respect of service buses, deliveries and refuse collection for the short term, the below traffic management plan has been put into effect.  

IF APPROACHING THE CITY CENTRE ON MILLBURN ROAD/CROWN ROAD:

• Signs will be in place to instruct car drivers that there is no way through Academy Street.

• Service Buses, Delivery vehicles, Refuse collection vehicles and Taxis will be allowed and directed to enter Union Street, Church Street and turn left down Fraser Street onto Bank street to turn left.

• All other traffic if required, will be allowed to make a u turn to drive back towards where they came from.  

IF APPROACHING THE CITY CENTRE ON CHAPEL STREET:

• Signs will be in place to instruct car drivers that there is no way through Academy Street

• All traffic will be directed to turn right from which they can access Friars Lane, turning left into Church Street, turn left into Post Office lane and then left into and down Academy Street.  

These temporary restrictions will be monitored by traffic wardens and ALBA traffic Management. The Highland council will review this on Monday 20th April 2015 after further consultation with police, fire services safety officers, Inverness BID and other partners.  

Local businesses unaffected by the fire are open and trading as usual.