A flyover design has been unveiled as the Scottish Government’s preferred solution to Inverness’s notorious Longman roundabout.
After months of studies – sparked by years of problems and complaints – Transport Scotland has offered its solution to the traffic bottleneck, where the A9 Inverness to Thurso and the A82 Inverness to Fort William roads meet.
In the past traffic calming methods, such as the installation of traffic lights, have been deployed to address congestion.
However, extended tailbacks and lengthy delays have demanded further action.
In a first look at the proposed new layout, government bosses have determined that the preferred option will consist of a single large roundabout at ground level, with the A9 raised above as four connecting slip roads allow motorists access to the north’s busiest road.
The new layout, which has been chosen as the preferred option out of five proposals, will maintain connections to the A82 and Stadium Road, with the existing roundabout enlarged to incorporate two bridges which will house the A9 above, with access for pedestrians and cyclists also expected to be enhanced.
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The redesign has been revealed by the Scottish Government ahead of public consultations today and tomorrow, with those within the vicinity asked to provide feedback and share any ideas they feel may enhance the project.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity Michael Matheson said: “As part of the Scottish Government’s commitment within the £315 million Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, we are taking forward our plans to improve the traffic bottleneck at Longman and we have been working hard to identify a preferred option for this important junction in the Highland capital following initial identification of five options last year.
“Through design development and assessment and taking into account the comments received on the five options, we have now got a preferred option which the local community and road users can see and comment on.”
He added: “I would encourage anyone with an interest to come along to either of the venues to view our plans of the preferred option for improving Longman junction and to have an opportunity to discuss them with our team and provide comments.great
“The vital feedback received will then be taken into account as we develop and assess the preferred option in greater detail as we look to publish draft orders next year.”
Consultation events will take place today at Inverness Caledonian Thistle Football Stadium from 12pm to 7pm, with a second event taking place tomorrow at Inverness Town House, again from 12pm to 7pm.
Material on show at the consultation events will also be available to view on the scheme’s website.