Residents and businesses are being given the opportunity to help shape a future transport vision for Fort William in the Scottish Highlands. A consultation is now open on the Fort William Integrated Transport Plan (ITP) aimed at improving infrastructure and connectivity in and around the town.
The ITP plans to support a connected, inclusive, safe and resilient Fort William. It seeks to address long-standing issues including the reliability and resilience of the trunk road network in the town.
Following feedback, an action plan will be developed as a preferred way forward.
The consultation, which runs until 5pm on Monday 13 April, will include an online survey, with an option to give views in hard copy. An informal drop-in event will be held on 17 March in the Nevis Centre to view designs and speak directly with the project team.
The study is led by Highlands and Islands Regional Transport Partnership (HITRANS) which commissioned AECOM in partnership with Stantec to develop the ITP. Transport Scotland and The Highland Council are also providing funding to support the work.
It will look at journey times and seasonal congestion on the A82 and A830 and how it impacts on drivers, public transport and businesses.
Other problems include a lack of alternative routes during road closures, poor bus accessibility and limited local rail services and Central Belt connections.
Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop said:
“An Integrated Transport Plan for Fort William was recommended in the second Strategic Transport Projects Review and I’m pleased that it is now out for public consultation.
“The Integrated Transport Plan should increase resilience and reliability on the trunk road, improve sustainable transport and enhance the sense of place in the local community. The Scottish Government is committed to bringing this complex piece of work together with the Fort William 2040 Masterplan, to ensure we develop a long term, sustainable solution for the people of Fort William and all those who travel on the A82 through the town.”
Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of The Highland Council’s Economy and Infrastructure Committee and a HITRANS Board Member, said:
“This consultation is your chance to help shape the future of transport in Fort William. We all want to see a more efficient, sustainable and accessible transport system that connects communities, supports businesses, and unlocks growth across Fort William and Lochaber.
“By taking part in the consultation, you can make sure the plan reflects the needs and priorities of the people who live and work here every day.
For more information about the project click HERE.
(Picture: Pauline Gebka)
