Work on a new bus only link that connects Raigmore Hospital to Raigmore Estate has been completed. The project is funded by Transport Scotland’s Bus Partnership Fund (BPF) and delivered by the Bus Service Improvement Partnership (BSIP) Group, comprised of The Highland Council, NHS Highland, HITRANS and Stagecoach.

The route will help in reducing congestion on Old Perth Road outside Raigmore Hospital and improve bus services to each of Raigmore Estate, Raigmore Hospital and the National Treatment Centre – Highland.

City Leader and local Ward Councillor, Ian Brown said: “A new bus gate has been an aspiration of all stakeholders for many years. I am delighted work is finally completed as it has taken some time to get here. I want to thank everyone for their patience.

“With the steady expansion of this key area of the city the flow of traffic is very prone to delays and regular bottlenecks. Having a direct link for buses and emergency vehicles between the hospital and Raigmore Estate will provide residents with a more frequent and reliable service at a time when it is ever more important to offer alternatives to the car. “

Richard MacDonald, Director of Estates, Facilities and Capital Planning from NHS Highland said: “We’re pleased to see the new route open. With this in place bus services between Raigmore Hospital and our National Treatment Centre will improve as well as traffic congestion in the surrounding area, particularly on Old Perth Road. My thanks go to all stakeholders for their involvement in the successful delivery of this project.”

(Picture – The Highland Council)