Improvement works at the Raigmore Interchange on the A9 are set to continue into the summer following emergency gas infrastructure repairs in Inverness.
BEAR Scotland, working on behalf of Transport Scotland, confirmed that progress has continued on the major upgrade project since works began in January.
Completed work so far has included upgrades to footways, drainage improvements, landscaping and preparation for new street lighting and traffic signals.
However, the overall programme has now been extended after emergency gas main replacement works carried out by SGN affected the project schedule.
The gas works were described as unforeseen but necessary to maintain uninterrupted gas supplies across Inverness.
BEAR Scotland said some elements of the traffic signal project cannot yet be finalised while the SGN works continue around the roundabout and surrounding roads.
Traffic signal installation is now expected to continue throughout July with completion anticipated by August.
Current traffic management arrangements will largely remain unchanged.
Overnight lane closures between 7pm and 6am will continue where required to allow work to be carried out safely while minimising disruption.
Pedestrian diversions around the interchange will also remain in place while the works continue.
SGN is expected to carry on with further gas main replacement activity along parts of the A96.
Steve Taylor, North West Design Manager at BEAR Scotland, said:
“We recognise that extending works into the busy summer period may cause some additional disruption for road users and the local community.
“While some elements of the programme have been impacted by emergency third party works, we are working closely with SGN and supply chain to maintain progress and complete the scheme as efficiently and safely as possible.
“We appreciate the continued patience of road users and the local community while these important improvements are delivered.”
The Raigmore Interchange project remains one of the most significant ongoing road improvement schemes in Inverness and is aimed at improving traffic flow, safety and reliability around one of the city’s busiest transport junctions.
