The Highland Council is calling on locals to help shape the region’s transport future with a new Local Transport Strategy (LTS) set to guide policy for the next decade.
Covering every aspect of transport — from roads to walking, wheeling, cycling, public and community transport, ferries, aviation, and freight — the strategy is designed to support safer, more sustainable travel across the Highlands.
This forward-looking strategy will be closely tied to other regional initiatives, including plans for economic growth, environmental goals, health objectives, and Scottish national transport policies.
Councillor Ken Gowans, Chair of the Economy and Infrastructure Committee, emphasises the importance of public input, inviting individuals, communities, and organisations across Highland to share their perspectives on how transport should look in the future.
Acknowledging the unique challenges posed by the Highlands’ vast geography and scattered communities, Councillor Gowans notes that while private cars will continue to be essential for many, a shift towards shared and active transport modes could bring multiple benefits.
Moving towards community transport, lift-sharing, public transit, and walking and cycling options, he says, would help reduce carbon emissions, ease congestion, improve public health, save households money, and make travel more accessible for those who cannot drive.
The LTS will align with the upcoming Highland Development Plan, a blueprint to guide future growth and preservation across the region, ensuring that transport and planning goals support each other.
The current draft of the LTS is broad, focused on guiding principles rather than specific projects or infrastructure; these details will be developed once elected members approve the final strategy.
Tracey Urry, Head of Roads & Infrastructure, highlights the draft LTS’s vision of a low-carbon, resilient, and accessible transport system that serves the diverse needs of Highland’s residents, businesses, and visitors.
The strategy seeks to cut emissions, improve walking and cycling choices, expand public and shared transport options, and invest in the safety and resilience of the region’s transport network.
Residents are encouraged to review the draft strategy at www.highland.gov.uk/lts, where they can provide a simple “support / don’t support” response or add detailed feedback if they wish.
Feedback will remain open until Tuesday, 3 December, after which the council will review input and prepare an updated draft LTS for council approval in early 2025.
In tandem with the transport strategy, public consultation on the Highland Local Development Plan is set to open in early 2025, giving locals a voice on crucial topics like housing, the economy, and the environment.
Printed copies of the LTS draft are available by request at 07909 277604, ensuring that all voices across Highland have a chance to contribute to this important strategy.
