Inshes junction improvements

We are planning improvements to the Inshes transport corridor to support future growth and reduce congestion.

Why this work is needed

The Inshes junction is one of the busiest in Inverness. It connects several neighbourhoods and key destinations, including:

  • Inshes Retail Park
  • Raigmore Hospital
  • major employment areas, where around 13,000 people work

It is also one of only three crossing points over the A9 trunk road. This makes it a vital part of the city’s transport network.

As the city grows, pressure on this junction will increase. Improvements are needed to:

  • support existing journeys
  • prepare for future development east of the A9
  • make better use of limited space in the corridor

What is happening

Transport Scotland is planning to dual the A96 between Inverness and Nairn, including a new bypass for Nairn, as part of its commitment to complete the dual carriageway network between all Scottish cities.

Find out more about the A96 Inverness to Nairn dualling

Once this is underway, it intends to construct a new road - Inshes to Smithton - which will connect Smithton Roundabout to the bridge over the A9 at Inshes.

Find out more about the A9/A96 Inshes to Smithton road

We are working closely with Transport Scotland to ensure the Inshes corridor can support this new connection and the wider transport network.

Planning application

We have submitted a planning application for the proposed improvements to the Inshes junction.

You can view the application on our planning portal:

View planning application 22/06197/FUL

Page last modified: 17 October 2025