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 The Highland Council’s recent introduction of a 20mph speed limit through Golspie. 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

Although exact dates are still being finalised, we currently anticipate starting construction in December, with the works expected to take around eight weeks to complete (excluding the Christmas and New Year period).

Preparations will be carried out on Tuesday 11 November for one day only.

More information on the construction programme and traffic management details, will be shared closer to the start of works.

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.