BEAR Scotland to begin road works for prohibition of right turn at A9/B9161 Munlochy junction this week
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WORKS to implement long-awaited safety measures at a blackspot on the Black Isle will begin this Sunday.
BEAR Scotland have announced that they will start works to forbid right turns at the infamous Munlochy junction from the B9161 road onto the A9 from November 20.
The works will take place overnight and will see temporary barriers and signage installed before a permanent kerbed traffic island is constructed next year.
The move comes after a series of serious incidents at the junction, with politicians and members of the community calling for improved road safety measures.
Eddie Ross, BEAR Scotland’s north west representative, said: “We are keen to have these important road safety measures installed as soon as practicable to reduce conflicts and accident risk at this busy junction and make it easier for drivers. The introduction of these measures builds upon the work already carried out at Munlochy junction. Road safety is a top priority for BEAR Scotland, Transport Scotland and The Highland Council, and this scheme on the A9 at Munlochy junction is part of our commitment to improving road safety on the trunk road network.
“The temporary traffic management arrangements are essential for the protection of our workforce as well as motorists; however, we’ve arranged these works to take place overnight when it is less busy. Due to the nature of the works required, lane closures and temporary speed restrictions are required to ensure it is completed in the shortest possible time. Our teams will do all they can to complete the project as quickly and as safely as possible and minimise delays and inconvenience to the local community.
“We encourage all road users to plan their journeys in advance by checking the Traffic Scotland website for up to date journey information.
Highland Council have now made a legal order to prohibit this manoeuvre, which will come into force on November 21.
The scheme will be the latest in a package of measures carried out by BEAR Scotland on behalf of Transport Scotland to improve the safety and operation of the junction, which has been an area of concern for road users.
The prohibition of the right turn was one of the favoured options during public consultations undertaken as part of the North Kessock to Tore study.
The decision comes after the recent installation of street lighting and earlier works involving traffic sign improvements and installation of central reserve safety barriers.
According to BEAR Scotland, the removal of right-turn facilities will initially be implemented with temporary barriers and signage.
A permanent kerbed traffic island will be constructed by mid-2023 to replace these initial measures. The works will reduce turning manoeuvres at the junction and simplify its layout.
A temporary speed limit of 30mph and temporary lane closures will be in place during road works, with noisy operations set to cease by 11pm each night.
