Traffic restructions during Streetscape works in Union Street and Drummond Street, Inverness

Inverness city centre Streetscape works will advance in Union Street and Drummond Street, over the coming weeks as the contractor begins to lay granite sets in a section of the carriageway.

Drivers are advised that there will be no through access as the road will be closed to all traffic for approximately seven weeks commencing Wednesday 3rd September.  The restricted area begins just before the Victorian Market entrance to just beyond the Drummond Street junction and includes Drummond Street between Union Street and Baron Taylor’s Street.

Pedestrian access will be maintained at all times and special arrangements are being put in place for vehicles making deliveries.  The temporary restriction is expected to last up to Wednesday 22 October 2008 or until the works are complete, whichever is first.

During this period disabled parking spaces are available on Church Street and Queensgate. Three spaces at the south end of Church Street can be accessed via Baron Taylor’s Street, some spaces on north Church Street near Leakey’s bookshop and three on Queensgate beside ‘The Room’ can be accessed from north Church Street.  Care should be taken to observe temporary start and end signs.

Scott Alexander, Area Leader for Rok Civil Engineering said: “We are working in partnership with The Highland Council and local stakeholders to progress the project as quickly as possible.  This closure period will allow us to increase our numbers on the ground and move on quickly to minimise disruption at the key Christmas trading period.  We appreciate the cooperation we are receiving from local businesses and residents and will do everything we can to assist them over the coming weeks.”

The overall target date for completion is spring 2009 and information about the timing of other areas due to be re-constructed will be issued in due course.

Provost Jimmy Gray, Chairman of the Inverness City Committee said: “I am pleased to hear about the progress in Union Street and Drummond Street.  There will inevitably be some inconvenience in the short term but the long term benefits will be a much enhanced city centre which is more pedestrian friendly.  Once the project is finished there will be a level surface from the High Street, through Lombard and Drummond Streets and across Union Street into the Victorian Market.  This will be a huge improvement for people on foot, in wheelchairs or with buggies.”

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