HIGHLAND commuters have been given a final warning to ditch their cars to avert chaos on the Kessock Bridge as major roadworks get under way today.
The crossing’s dual carriageway will be restricted to just two lanes for the next four months as contractors complete the second phase of essential resurfacing.
Motorists heading to and from Inverness face significant delays during rush hour as they negotiate their way through a 30mph contraflow.
Yesterday, as contractors put the final preparations in place, local councillors said they were concerned about complacency among drivers after the first phase of work last year.
They have urged the public to make use of all the alternatives to ensure traffic does not grind to a halt. Car-sharing schemes, extra buses and extra train carriages are among the measures laid on, with major employers such as Highland Council and NHS Highland allowing their staff to work flexible hours. Last year, there was a dramatic increase in the number of train and bus passengers during the first phase of the works.
Bear Scotland, which is running the works, wants 1,000 fewer vehicles on the bridge during the daily rush hours.
Councillor Helen Carmichael said yesterday she was concerned about the potential build-up of traffic in her ward, especially in Beauly, which experienced a significant increase in cars during the first phase of work as motorists tried to find an alternative route to Inverness.
She said: “If people are complacent about using the alternatives, there could be problems.
“Commuters need to leave their cars at home and use the bus or train. I just hope that they get into that routine quickly during these works.”
Black Isle councillor Isobel McCallum said: “I think we are all resigned to the need for the works.
“I would urge everybody to do what they did last year. My concern would be if people thought ‘Things weren’t too bad last year – I’ll take the car’. I fear that could happen. I think the first week will be telling.” There will additional pressure in Inverness city centre, where Highland Council will keep a vital street closed for work on a flood scheme.
Bank Street was scheduled to reopen today to ease congestion caused by the bridge resurfacing but the council scheme is behind schedule and engineers want to make up time.
However, it means the flood works are likely to extend into the Easter break.
Inverness Business Improvement District manager Mike Smith said: “People should be aware that they should stagger their journeys or make different arrangements.
“We are hopeful that there will be a positive outcome, but people need to take the same measures as they did last time.”
Bear Scotland’s Eddie Ross said: “A reduced speed limit of 30mph will be in place from today to keep both road users and workers safe. We understand this will mean some delays for motorists and we urge the public to avoid unnecessary travel into the city centre and to consider using public transport, car sharing, cycling or walking, where possible.
“Motorists understand the complex nature of this project but also the long-term benefits. The public were extremely patient during the first phase and we hope for their continued support again this year.”