This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Safety measures for North Kessock junction
02/07/2003
A number of short-term measures are being considered to improve safety at North Kessock junction on the A9, it was confirmed today.
The Executive recently commissioned trunk road operators BEAR Scotland to report on possible measures that would address current safety issues at the junction. Mr Stephen has received BEAR's report and has confirmed his support for the measures.
Transport Minister Nicol Stephen confirmed the following are being considered:
- new 50 mph speed limit on both carriageways
- new cross with care signing
- new chevron road markings to make motorists more aware of road layout
- new 'keep left' signs on the central reserve and on traffic islands to ensure motorists negotiate the junction correctly
- improved used of the existing surveillance camera
- consideration of further Police camera enforcement
Mr Stephen said:
"Road safety is a top priority for the Scottish Executive and at a recent meeting with local MSP John Farquhar Munro, other regional MSPs and the local councillor, I expressed my concern at the recent accidents at North Kessock junction.
"I have made clear my determination to introduce safety measures as soon as possible at this junction, and we have now begun this process. We are starting immediately the procedures to introduce a 50 mph speed limit through the whole junction.
"The additional measures we are considering will address a number of key safety issues at North Kessock junction by making motorists more aware of the need for safety at the junction, and allowing further monitoring and analysis of the behaviour of those using the junction.
"I am very keen to receive local feedback to the proposed short-term measures which is why arrangements have been made for the local community to be as fully informed as possible. The Executive is to arrange for information about the proposed safety measures to be displayed at North Kessock Hall. I will ensure that all feedback is taken into consideration before further decisions are made."
Mr Stephen plans to visit the junction as part of a summer tour of the Highlands later this month, when he intends to confirm the final details of the measures to be implemented at the junction.