Two thirds of drivers in the Milton of Leys area are exceeding the 30mph speed limit, a new survey has found.
The research, undertaken by Highland Council over the summer, also found that almost a quarter of motorists are breaching 35mph within the Inshes area.
In the area covered, only five incidents led to damage and one involved a minor injury. Traffic counters were deployed to establish vehicle speeds and accident figures following a series of community concerns – exacerbated by concerns about the potential increase in traffic when the West Link opens.
Local councillor Ken Gowans said: “The findings of the survey support the concerns raised by myself and others in the community. Traffic calming measures have been added around school zones, so it’s disappointing that driver behaviour has not be moderated.
“I’m pleased that it has been acknowledged that traffic numbers and incidences of speeding will significantly increase once the West Link is on stream. While there will be great advantages in having the West Link open, this will present very real challenges around the Inshes area until the local roads infrastructure is improved to accommodate increased volumes.”
The council has been working with Police Scotland to identify measures to address the speeding and improve safety in the area.
A series of signs and road markings will be put in place in the coming weeks to reinforce the stipulated speed limit.
Meanwhile, police will continue to carry out random speed checks across the area.
Councillor Allan Henderson, chairman of the Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee, expressed shock at the number of drivers exceeding the limit and the danger they pose.
He said: “I am surprised and dismayed to see evidence of such a high number of drivers driving at speed through a residential area and causing a hazard to pedestrians and other drivers.
“This is not acceptable and I hope that our traffic calming measures and proposed actions with Police Scotland result in a reduction in speed and a safer area.”
A speed camera will also be installed for two weeks following the opening of the West Link.
