Streetscape and Water Mains Replacement Progresses in South Church Street, Inverness

Implementation of the Inverness city centre streetscape works will progress in south Church Street, from Monday (11 February). In the interests of public safety, the section of Church Street from the end of Baron Taylor’s Street to the junction with Union Street will be closed to vehicular traffic.  Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times and access for emergency vehicles, refuse and delivery vehicles will be controlled by the contractor.

The closure is expected to last up to 8 weeks during which time the street carriageway will be laid with granite sets up to pavement level.  Marie Mackintosh, city partnership officer, said: “Completion of this stretch of Church Street should give the old town a real boost as people will be able to see the difference the project has made in creating an attractive and inviting pedestrian access from Bridge Street.”

The construction contractor acknowledges the affect that their operations are having on the nearby businesses, particularly in relation to access for loading and deliveries.  Rok’s contract manager David MacDonald said: “It’s a challenge working in these narrow streets while trying to maintain access for pedestrians and traffic.  Our priority is to keep everyone safe and to get the job done as quickly as possible so in this area a road closure is unavoidable.  We appreciate the cooperation we are receiving from local businesses and residents and will do everything we can to assist them in the coming weeks and months.”

A delay in streetscape works proceeding on Union Street, Queensgate and mid-Church Street due to defects found on properties has allowed works on Fraser Street to start ahead of schedule.

From Monday, 18 February for a period of six-eight weeks, buses and taxis will be excluded from Fraser Street to allow streetscape and water mains works to proceed safely there.  Pedestrian access will be maintained.

Marie Mackintosh said: “A number of owners on Union Street, Queensgate and mid-Church Street have already been in contact with The Highland Council to confirm that they are having remedial works done.  Colleagues are following up with those we have not heard from in the hope that we can avoid the need to issue formal notices.”

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For more information contact: Marie Mackintosh, City Partnership Officer at marie.mackintosh@highland.gov.uk or  01463 724380 / 07751 051371