Public invited to have a say on proposed Inverness Maritime Heritage Trail
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New designs for a proposed Inverness Maritime Heritage Trail have been unveiled for public feedback.
The aim is to create a cycle and pedestrian-friendly route between the city centre and the city’s "maritime quarter" including the Port of Inverness.
Following previous consultations, improved designs went on show in the Eastgate Shopping Centre yesterday.
They are also available to view on Invernessheritagetrailmap which includes a survey, inviting people to have a say on the future of Shore Street, Cromwell Road and Longman Drive.
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- Public asked for feedback on proposed maritime heritage trail
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The project involves Sustrans – the walking, wheeling and cycling campaigning charity – and the Port of Inverness.
They are working in collaboration with TGP Landscape Architects which has conducted surveys and analysis and is developing initial designs for the street layout.
The project was first announced in December 2017 and following a consultation in 2021, the design team has put forward updated designs.
Gary Stodart, director of TGP, said one issue which had been highlighted related to concerns about HGV movements in Cromwell Road.
Having taken on board people's comments, the design had been modified in a bid to find a workable solution while priority control measures have been suggested in a bid to address pedestrian and cyclist safety concerns about traffic speed and volume.
Other work has included new landscape designs at Cromwell Tower, the marina entrance and improved footways.
Mr Stodart acknowledged the area houses a working port and is industrial in character but also felt there were measures which could be taken.
"When you walk there, it is an industrial area and there are galvanised fences," he said.
"But there is an opportunity to paint them and make them more aesthetically pleasing."
Port of Inverness chief executive Sinclair Browne said the aim was to make the area's history more accessible.
"We are trying to capitalise on the maritime heritage," he said.
"We are trying to make it more accessible and attractive to people."
He also pointed out that the National Cycle Network – which connects John O' Groats with Lands End – goes through the area.
"We are trying to reduce the conflict and make improvements by separating pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles."
People are now being invited to give their views on what they want to see implemented on the route to improve walking and cycling as well as public spaces as well as what they think of the new designs.
