Highlands and Islands Labour MSP, Rhoda Grant, has been advised by the government’s national transport agency, Transport Scotland, that work is being carried out to reinstate electronic signage close to the A9 Munlochy junction.
Mrs Grant contacted the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity, Michael Matheson, about the matter after she received representation from a local constituent whose family use the road frequently. The MSP has received a reply from Transport Scotland advising that the signs were initially installed as a mitigation measure against the likely build-up of traffic on the A9 as a result of housing development in the area. The transport agency confirmed that the signs worked initially and then a problem with the battery power supply emerged, followed by a weak communication link between the control box and the signs but BEAR Scotland and the sign suppliers are now working to resolve the issue.
Mrs Grant said “Local constituents have contacted me with a number of suggested safety improvements for the junction but Transport Scotland has advised that many of the suggestions would require detailed design and, in the case of a permanent speed limit reduction, a statutory public consultation, and are therefore not something that could be delivered in the short term.
“A study to consider the safety and operation of the section of dual carriageway between the Kessock Bridge and the Tore roundabout is being undertaken but any proposals from this would then be prioritised alongside other safety schemes in the North West Unit.
“However, reinstating the electronic warning signage appears to be a possibility and I welcome this intervention by Transport Scotland in trying to make the junction safer.”
Mrs Grant concluded “It was intended to have the work undertaken on the signage in March and early April however, I am seeking clarification if this has been delayed due to restrictions in place over the coronavirus.
“I thank the local constituents who have taken the time to put their thoughts to me and I am pleased that Transport Scotland has been willing to investigate the different safety measures which have been suggested by people who live locally. I will be keeping in touch with Transport Scotland on this.”