New junction to be considered for A9 accident black spot
MSP Kate Forbes is calling for major works to be brought forward as quickly as possible.
Last updated 10th Dec 2021
A roundabout or a new junction are two of the measures being considered to replace the current set-up at the Munlochy A9 turn-off.
Other options being investigated further include closing all rights turns, only closing the right turn from the B9161 onto the northbound A9, and an extension of the southbound slipway which joins the trunk road.
However, measures to reduce the speed limit at the junction, or amend road signage for tourists to go to Cromarty via the Tore roundabout, are said to have been rejected by Transport Scotland.
"We are all aware of the problems" - Kate Forbes
Earlier this week, it was confirmed a second pensioner died following a crash at the junction last month.
Black Isle MSP Kate Forbes called for major works to be brought forward as quickly as possible.
She is still awaiting a response to her letter to Transport Scotland of last month following the recent tragic double fatality.
Kate Forbes MSP said: "I am pleased that Transport Scotland are honing in on their preferred option for the Munlochy Junction, though a roundabout or an entirely new junction will take a considerable period of time to come to fruition.
"I do recognise that all of these decisions have major and multi-faceted implications, however I am looking for urgency to get work moving as quickly as possible.
"We are all aware of the problems, and Munlochy Junction continues to pose concerns for users – with an ever-increasing volume of traffic.
"I recognise street lighting will hopefully be installed in the next few months, but I hope we can see faster progress on meaningful options, including closing the right turn from the B9161 to the A9 northbound carriageway and also extending the southbound slipway.
I will be speaking to the Transport Minister in the coming days to try and get all of these options moving as quickly as possible. Road safety improvements at Munlochy are vitally important."
The MSP for Skye, Lochaber & Badenoch added: "The whole study took in the section from North Kessock to Tore, and there are important proposals for Tore roundabout too.
"Transport Scotland will soon be consulting on the speed limit on all approaches to the roundabout, and they are also considering improving pedestrian access, as well as potentially relocating the bus stops and even putting in traffic lights.
"I will continue to engage with the process and am sincerely grateful for the feedback my constituents and other road users have provided me."
A Transport Scotland spokesman said: "Transport Scotland is working with Highland Council on this issue and expect to be in a position to give further details in the very near future."