Highland Council has approved the installation of new motorcycle safety features at six locations on the A939 between Grantown and Nairn following a decision taken at today’s Badenoch and Strathspey Committee meeting.
The measures will introduce PRIME signage and specialist road markings on bends where motorcyclists have been involved in collisions.
PRIME, which stands for Perceptual Rider Information for Maximisation of Enjoyment and Expertise, uses visual cues to encourage safer riding behaviour without the need for enforcement.
The system has already been trialled successfully across Scotland and has been shown to promote positive changes in speed, road position, and braking behaviour among riders.
The road markings are designed as a series of gateways, giving riders clearer information as they approach bends and potential hazards.
Chair of the Badenoch and Strathspey Committee, Russell Jones, said motorcyclists continue to represent a high proportion of casualties on Scotland’s roads.
“Motorcyclists represent a high proportion of casualties in road accidents, and it’s important that we do all we can to make our roads safer.
“I am proud that Highland Council is one of the first local authorities to introduce PRIME signage and road markings, which will be installed on six bends on the A939 between Nairn and Grantown, in locations where motorcyclists are having collisions.”
Councillor Jones said that while compliance is voluntary, evidence suggests riders respond positively to the approach.
“Although there is no legal requirement for motorcyclists to comply, research has shown that PRIME signage and markings are readily adopted by riders and contribute towards positive behaviour change.
“They provide a tool for riders to adapt their behaviour on approach to a potential hazard, which plays a vital role in improving road safety and reducing road traffic accidents.”
The design, installation, and site supervision costs for the new measures will be fully funded through the current financial year’s Road Safety Improvement Fund grant.
The funding is provided by Transport Scotland as part of wider efforts to improve road safety across the country.
The work also marks the final stage of Highland Council’s Road Safety Route Treatment Improvement Scheme on the A939 during 2025/26.
That wider scheme has already delivered new bend warning signage, verge marker posts, and refreshed road markings along the route.
The addition of motorcycle specific safety measures is intended to further reduce collision risk on a road popular with riders.
Council officials say the combined interventions aim to improve safety for all road users while supporting responsible and enjoyable motorcycling across the Highlands.
