A key stretch of the National Cycle Network has been temporarily reopened to give cyclists, walkers and other non motorised users a safer and more reliable route during the next phase of the A9 dualling project between Tomatin and Moy.
The section of National Cycle Network Route 7 that had been diverted during construction has now been brought back into use to allow improvement works on the diversion itself.
The decision ensures that access for non motorised users is protected ahead of peak cycling periods in twenty twenty six when demand for the route is expected to rise significantly.
The reopened path is available from twenty one November and will remain in place until January twenty twenty six.
The diversion that has been in use up until this point closed on the same date.
Transport Scotland and the project contractors say the move is designed to maintain continuity for people travelling through the area by bike or on foot while essential works continue.
Road users on the A9 are being asked to approach the area with care and to observe the temporary forty mile per hour speed limit that remains in force.
There are also signs in place warning drivers that non motorised users may be crossing ahead.
The layout of the route has been adjusted slightly to improve safety.
Instead of crossing the A9 at the Invereen roundabout, cyclists and walkers will continue north alongside the A9 using an existing paved path for around one point three kilometres before crossing the carriageway at the same point as before, approximately seventy metres south of the Dalmagarry farm junction.
A map of the revised route has been made available to help users navigate the change and updated signage is being installed on site.
Balfour Beatty will carry out weekly inspections of the route to ensure that the surface, signage and access points remain safe and fit for use throughout the winter.
The existing QR code system will also remain in operation, allowing users to report issues quickly from their phones.
The codes will be repositioned at a number of locations along the route so that reports can be made easily and so that emerging problems can be identified before they become hazards.
Transport Scotland has thanked users for their patience as construction continues and has emphasised that the arrangements may need to change if weather or other factors affect progress.
Updates will be issued if any alterations to the route or timetable become necessary.
The A9 dualling project between Tomatin and Moy is one of the most significant infrastructure upgrades underway in the Highlands and maintaining safe access for cyclists and walkers has been a recurring priority as work progresses.
With winter now underway, project teams will continue to balance construction demands with public safety and have encouraged road users to remain aware of the changing environment around the site.
The temporary reopening of National Cycle Network Route 7 is expected to offer more confidence to those travelling through the area and clearer separation from the works taking place nearby.
Further updates will be provided as the project enters its next stages.
