A call for a crossing on a busy Inverness road has taken a major step forward.
Transport Scotland has agreed to carry out work at Glenurquhart Road, and is also planning to carry out consultation on a proposal for a pedestrian crossing.
Highland and Islands MSP David Stewart has been backing campaigners who want to see safety improvements on the Fort William road out of the city, or close to the junction of Planefield Road and Tomnahurich Street.
A crossing near Highland Council headquarters would be used by children attending Central Primary School.
Fears were voiced following the recent absence of a school crossing patroller on the road, which Mr Stewart said strengthened the campaign for a permanent crossing.
Transport Scotland chief executive Roy Brannen had previously dismissed the idea of a crossing, saying the agency did not believe there was a road safety issue which could be addressed by its installation.
However, Mr Stewart tackled the agency again and has welcomed the most recent response.
Hugh Gillies, director of trunk road and bus operations, in correspondence with Mr Stewart told him: “The Planefield Road area is an area which you will be aware we are considering potential crossing options for.
“The suggested option for this location is to build out the footways to increase the area available for those wishing to cross. This would narrow the carriageway making the crossing shorter and improve visibility of the crossing to drivers.
“We understand the levels of demand at this location out with the times that the crossing patroller operates are low, however we are undertaking pedestrian surveys and no decision on the final crossing type has been made yet.”
Mr Gillies said it will get feedback at a planned public exhibition and consultation and would be looking to improve visibility with some new school warning signs.
Mr Stewart said: “I see this as a move in the right direction by Transport Scotland as it has reassured me that it will be taking on board the comments of constituents through public exhibitions before any decision on a crossing is made.
“I think the message to residents is, make sure you add your views to the consultation, especially if you want to see a permanent crossing in the area.”
