A major consultation has opened on the future of transport in Fort William, giving residents and businesses a direct say in plans that could reshape how the town moves and grows.
The Fort William Integrated Transport Plan aims to improve infrastructure and connectivity across the town and surrounding communities including Caol, Inverlochy, Banavie and Corpach.
Led by Highlands and Islands Transport Partnership, with support from Transport Scotland and The Highland Council, the study will examine long standing issues that many locals know too well.
These include congestion on the A82 and A830, unreliable journey times during peak tourist seasons and the lack of alternative routes when roads are closed.
Public transport access, rail connections to the Central Belt and the overall resilience of the trunk road network are also under review.
An online survey has launched and runs until 5pm on Monday 13 April 2026, with paper copies available for those who prefer them.
A public drop in session will take place at the Nevis Centre on 17 March, offering the chance to view proposals and speak directly to the project team.
Leaflets promoting the consultation are being delivered to every household in the study area and a dedicated email address has been created for direct feedback.
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 added:
“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.
“I encourage as many people as possible to take up this opportunity to get involved as we want to hear as many views as possible.”
Frazer Coupland of the West Highland Chamber of Commerce said:
“Inadequate transport links and seasonal gridlock through Fort William have blocked growth across the West Highlands for far too long.
“The Chamber continues to lobby government and speak up for our West Highland communities, fighting for the urgent infrastructure upgrades outlined in our West Highland Manifesto.
“This consultation is our chance to break the deadlock and drive solutions.
“I urge every local business to speak up now so we can finally secure a transport system that fixes our daily reality and allows our region to thrive.”
For a town that sits at the crossroads of the Highlands, how Fort William moves matters not just locally but nationally.
The consultation is now live.
For more information contact FortWilliamITP@aecom.com or find more information about the project by clicking HERE
