Inverness traffic tailbacks are a foretaste of impact of Academy Street plans, claims business leader

Lengthy traffic tailbacks today in Inverness following a road closure are a foretaste of what will happen if the Academy Street plans go ahead.

That is the view of city business owner Jo de Silva who runs MacGregor’s gastro-pub with husband, Bruce MacGregor.

Ms de Silva found herself caught up in long traffic queues in the city centre this morning following the continued closure of Harbour Road due to a burst water main.

"This is an example of what will happen if a main thoroughfare is cut off," said Ms de Silva.

• Busy Inverness road still closed to traffic during rush hour

• Inverness road to remain closed due to burst water main

• Controversial Academy Street plans approved

Last month, Highland councillors agreed to controversial plans to revamp Academy Street and limit traffic access.

Ms de Silva said traffic about 8.30am today was queuing from Academy Street to KFC in Millburn Road while the alternative route on the A9 was backed up with traffic from the Longman roundabout to Millburn Road.

She estimated it took her 30 minutes to complete a journey which would usually take up to seven minutes.

"If you were heading into Inverness along Millburn Road, the traffic was nose to tail and stopped," she said.

"This is what we have to look forward to when a main thoroughfare is closed."

Scottish Water completed its repairs on the pipe last night but has warned Harbour Road could remain closed today until the area is fully reinstated.

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