Highland towns could see radical changes in how their streets are used if a funding bid by council and health bosses is successful.
The two authorities have asked for an initial £600,000 from the Scottish Government’s new Spaces for People fund, designed to enable temporary measures to be put in place to protect public health, support social distancing and prevent a second wave of Covid-19 .
If successful, Inverness would be used first as a test area to put in place temporary walking, wheeling and cycling infrastructure focused on travel connections for key workers to Raigmore hospital initially.
On Inshes roundabout and roads converging on the hospital, water-filled barriers will take away road space in order to widen pavements and create cycle lanes.
Depending on the success of the trial and further funding bids, the concept could be rolled out in future to Fort William, Nairn, Aviemore, Dingwall, Wick, Thurso and Portree.
Though temporary, the modifications would be in place as long as lockdowns and social distancing are needed, and depending on public response, could become part of permanent changes to Highland townscapes.
Councillor Trish Robertson, chairwoman of Highland Council’s economy and infrastructure committee said she was excited by the opportunities the fund presented.
“We need to do something to make it easier for folk, because there is a fear of public transport.
“As people come back to work they will walk, cycle and use their cars, although we would like to discourage cars as much as possible.
“There will still be space for two lanes for cars, and cars will probably go slower because of the reduced space.
“The temporary measures proposed will enable more active travel in a safer environment and promote opportunities for the re-imagining of our streets, town and city centres as we emerge from this crisis.”
The council is encouraging communities, businesses and other stakeholders to get involved.
A consultation has been set up so that people can share their views on the proposed interventions now and as they are implemented.
Inverness provost councillor Helen Carmichael encouraged the public to have their say.
“The Spaces for People funding bid represents a great opportunity to bring positive change for the city in otherwise difficult times so I would encourage everyone to get behind this positive opportunity and join in the conversation through our consultation portal.”
Dan Jenkins, NHS Highland health improvement team said the improved infrastructure would bring immediate safety benefits.
“Personal safety along key routes is a major concern and a real danger where adequate provision and segregation is not in place for cyclists and pedestrians.
“With current social distancing and movement restrictions, active travel may be the only opportunity some people have to be physically active to remain healthy.”
Click here to view the consultation.
