Road safety will soon be improved at a West Highland tourist hotspot after Transport Scotland agreed to implement Kate Forbes MSP’s request to reduce the 60mph speed limit to 40mph at a road near two world-famous tourist attractions.
Tens of thousands of tourists come to Glenfinnan each year via the A830 to see the iconic viaduct, which featured in the Harry Potter films, as well as the monument which honours fallen Jacobite clansmen.
Because the Glenfinnan monument does not have its own car park, visitors must walk along and cross the A830 – which has a 60mph limit – to gain access.
Local children must also wait at the side of the road for their school bus pick-up.
Along with Glenfinnan Community Council, Kate Forbes MSP campaigned for months to see a reduction on safety grounds.
News of a speed limit reduction to 40mph and the installation of a controlled pedestrian crossing was confirmed to the Lochaber MSP earlier this year.
Transport Scotland have now said in a letter that the new signage will be installed before the end of March 2020.
Kate Forbes MSP said:
“This will help make visitor access to Glenfinnan easier, safer and more welcoming.
“For two years, the local community have been developing ideas for car parking and secured funding through the Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund.
“During this time, they have also been campaigning for a lower speed limit at the crossing place to the Monument.
“After a lot of correspondence, a few meetings and continued pressure, I am delighted to see that Transport Scotland will be implementing the new and lower speed limit before the end of March.
“I hope this means it’s much safer for visitors and locals alike.
“It’s another example of community campaigning and sheer determination paying off.”
