What steps it is taking to improve safety on the A9 between Inverness and Tore, and whether it will consider lowering the speed limit on th…

We are progressing an options appraisal using Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance to identify potential improvements on the A9 between North Kessock Junction and Tore Roundabout. The latest report on this appraisal is expected to be published by 10 December and will set out a short list of options recommended for further consideration. Transport Scotland will review these recommendations and consider the next steps, taking account of the feasibility of the options and available resources.
In the short term, works to install street lighting at the A9/B9161 Munlochy junction will commence this month. In addition, a review of the speed limit around Tore Roundabout will be carried out, along with investigations into improvements to active travel facilities and road markings at the roundabout
The section from Longman Roundabout to south of the North Kessock junction is already subject to a 50mph speed limit. A speed limit reduction to 50mph on the section north of this, to Tore Roundabout, is an option being considered in the current appraisal. This option is not consistent with national guidance on speed limits, given the current average speeds and rural environment of this dual carriageway road. Lowering the speed limit has potential to cause platooning of traffic, reducing the gaps available to turn right at junctions. Furthermore, the process to make any speed limit reduction allows those disadvantaged by the proposal to object. The public consultation results indicated overall negative views towards this option, meaning that a significant number of objections are likely. The findings of the options appraisal will be published mid-December.