A controversial plan to cut a speed limit on a Highland tourist route from 60mph to 50mph has been dropped – to the delight of local protesters.
Transport Scotland has made a u-turn on plans to lower the limit on almost 20 miles of the A87 Invergarry to Kyle road after local residents gave their views on the proposals.
An online petition gathered more than 1,000 signatures amid claims that it would make the road more dangerous and increase journey times.
Shona MacLennan, of Dornie, Kyle, who organised the petition, said: “I am delighted that the petition made a difference. I would like to thank the people who signed it and also thank Transport Scotland and the Minister for listening to our concerns.
“The new limit would have meant it would be almost impossible to overtake slow traffic between Invergarry and Kyle which would have caused frustration.”
The sections under consideration were the 12.5-mile stretch between Cluanie Inn and Kintail Lodge Hotel and a 6.5-mile stretch between Invergarry and The Viewpoint.
Dave Thompson SNP MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, who raised the issue in the Scottish Parliament, said: “I am delighted that the Transport Minister has decided not to go ahead with the proposed plans to reduce the speed limit west of the Cluanie Inn or between Invergarry and the viewpoint.
“I am delighted to report that the minister has listened to the evidence on road safety and concluded that the speed reduction measures will not be required.”
Transport Minister Derek Mackay said: “We are always keen to hear what people think about our proposals and we take the time to consider their responses. We balance these concerns with the need to ensure that casualty numbers continue to fall across the country.
“The safety of our roads is of paramount importance and any proposed speed limit reductions are part of a wider programme of measures.
“Some recent submissions on specific Speed Limit Review recommendations highlighted that the public had strong feelings about the limits being reduced in certain areas.
“We have taken the opportunity to look again at some of the conclusions and recommendations.
“The trunk road network plays an important part in the daily lives of communities up and down the country and it is encouraging that people feel that they can engage with us on these important issues. We will continue to listen to their opinions and take appropriate action if required.”