River Ness Flood Scheme update

Works on the River Ness Flood Alleviation Scheme, Inverness,  are progressing on three fronts ahead of a festive closedown by the contractor between 20 December and 7 January 2013.

Douglas Row on the eastern side of the river has been closed to vehicles to allow the installation of a new gas main. It will remain closed until 20th December.  Work may need to be continued from 7th January next year if the planned works are not completed by the festive close down. Pedestrian access will be maintained through Douglas Row at all times during the works. 

Night working is under way at Ness Bridge junction, Castle Road/Bridge Street/Bank Street,  to complete permanent reinstatement of the trench excavated across the Ness Bridge junction.  These works are being carried out between 7pm and 7am in order to minimise disruption and to maintain two-way traffic across Ness Bridge during the day. Works will continue overnight Tuesday 11th December/Wednesday 12th December.

On the opposite side of the river, Huntly Street remains closed to vehicles between Ness Bridge and Greig Street as utility services are diverted.  It is hoped to complete these works by Wednesday 19th December at the latest. Pedestrian access will be maintained through Huntly Street at all times during the works and all shops and businesses remain open.  Full access along the whole of Huntly Street from Wells Street to Ness Bridge and on-street Pay and Display parking will be restored between 19th December to 7th January 2013.

Enabling works will start on the next section of Huntly Street between Greig Street and Celt Street on Monday 7th January, requiring this length to be closed to vehicles. Greig Street to Ness Bridge and Wells Street to Celt Street will be unaffected and open as normal.

A Council spokesman said: “While every effort will be made to minimise disturbance and nuisance, construction works will be on-going and we thank the public for their  continued patience and co-operation during these essential works, required in preparation for the construction of the flood defences and streetscape enhancements.”