• Project extended due to emergency gas works

• Traffic management arrangements remain in place

BEAR Scotland, on behalf of Transport Scotland, is continuing improvement works at Raigmore Interchange on the A9 in Inverness.

Since works began in January, progress has been made across a range of upgrades including footways, drainage, landscaping and preparatory works for new street lighting and traffic signals. However, the overall programme has been extended due to ongoing emergency gas mains replacement works being undertaken by SGN. These emergency works were unforeseen and need to be addressed by SGN so as to continue providing Inverness with an uninterrupted gas supply.

BEAR Scotland has been working closely with SGN to ensure the traffic signal project has progressed as much as possible while emergency gas main works are being carried out at the roundabout and its approaches. Some elements of the signalisation project cannot yet be finalised, and coordination with SGN is ongoing to allow both sets of works to be completed as quickly and safely as possible.

It is now anticipated that the installation of the new traffic signals will continue throughout July with completion expected by August.

Traffic management arrangements for the signalisation of the roundabout and A9 approaches will remain largely unchanged. Overnight lane closures between 7pm and 6am will continue as required to facilitate safe working and to minimise distruption.

Footways around the interchange will also be affected, with localised pedestrian diversions remaining in place to maintain safety.

SGN is expected to continue its emergency gas main replacement works, with further activity planned along the A96. For more information visit: www.sgn.co.uk/our-gas-works/major-planned-projects/inverness-a96-raigmore-interchange

Steve Taylor, BEAR Scotland’s North West Design Manager, said: “We recognise that extending works into the busy summer period may cause some additional disruption for road users and the local community.

“While some elements of the programme have been impacted by emergency third-party works, we are working closely with SGN and supply chain to maintain progress and complete the scheme as efficiently and safely as possible.

“We appreciate the continued patience of road users and the local community while these important improvements are delivered.”

Real time journey information is available from Traffic Scotland on www.traffic.gov.scot, X @trafficscotland or on the mobile site my.trafficscotland.org.