Improving pedestrian safety in Golspie

BEAR Scotland, on behalf of Transport Scotland, is proposing the installation of a new controlled “Puffin” pedestrian crossing on the A9 Main Street in Golspie to improve safety and accessibility for all road users.

This new crossing forms part of our ongoing efforts to make Scotland’s trunk road network safer and more inclusive for pedestrians and vulnerable road users.

Why a new crossing is needed

A series of traffic, pedestrian and topographical surveys carried out within Golspie highlighted a clear need for a safer and more convenient place to cross the A9 — particularly during peak times.

Following detailed review, the proposed location was chosen for its proximity to key local destinations including shops, the beach, and Golspie High School, which all experience regular pedestrian activity throughout the day.

What the project involves

Alongside the installation of the new controlled crossing, improvement works will include:

• Resurfacing of surrounding footways to improve accessibility and fix existing defects.
• Carriageway resurfacing to enhance skid resistance and overall safety.
• Street lighting replacement over the scheme extents.
• New and refreshed road markings, including double yellow lines and crossing markings, to ensure clear visibility for all road users.

These improvements will help create a safer, more accessible, and user-friendly environment for both pedestrians and road users in Golspie.

Supporting a safer, slower Golspie

This proposal also supports Transport Scotland’s recent introduction of a 20mph speed limit through Golspie, and the wider area by the Highland Council. Working in conjunction with this initiative, the new pedestrian crossing is intended to further reinforce to drivers that this is a low-speed area, encouraging continued compliance with the reduced speed limit. The Highland Council continues to undertake regular speed monitoring surveys to assess vehicle speeds and ensure the effectiveness of these measures in promoting safer travel within Golspie.

Construction and timescales

Preparation works start on Monday 15 December. This involves making improvements to an existing pedestrian ‘build out’, adding a tactile paving surface, replacing kerbs and resurfacing.

The project will pause on Friday 19 December for the festive break with works recommencing on Monday 5 January to undertake footway improvements and install a new controlled puffin crossing, followed by carrigeway resurfacing and application of new road markings around the controlled crossing.

Works are expected to take around 15 weeks to complete depending on suitable weather conditions.

Get in touch

BEAR Scotland and Transport Scotland would like to thank the local community for their patience and understanding as we deliver these important improvements to Golspie’s infrastructure.

Should you wish to discuss the proposal or request further information at this stage, please do not hesitate to contact us via email at NWConsultation@bearscotland.co.uk.

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