Councillors to decide on whether to keep one-way system in Inverness

Councillors will decide today on whether to make a temporary one-way system in Inverness permanent.

Officials are advising to keep the current set-up at the Inverness Riverside Way with a cycle path.

The scheme has garnered considerable support, with many saying it has helped cycling in the area.

However, local residents have slammed the proposals with concerns over "rat running and speeding" in nearby streets.

"The whole process has been a disaster"

A 44-report on the Highland Council website lists 14 objections and 18 letters in favour of the scheme.

Those supporting the scheme say it has made the route safer.

But Ballifeary Community Council say the changes have made adjacent streets "difficult, dangerous and unpleasant."

Treasurer Andrew Smith says some Ballifeary residents are considering moving over the plans and the way concerns have been dealt with.

He said: "The riverside is a favourite leisure walk for local families and tourists alike.

“It was particularly popular during the Covid Lockdown when many families used the Riverside Way as a great way to exercise and enjoy our city.

"We would welcome improvements to the route which will encourage more people to use and appreciate it – so long the scheme is properly thought through.

“The whole process has been a disaster with the Council refusing to act on the very strong objections which the Community Council and many individual residents have expressed repeatedly.

“They are failing to recognise that extra vehicles in the streets where we live means extra risks to people walking and cycling in them, as well as extra pollution and noise.

"It’s encouraging people to move out of the area, we feel the whole area is being diminished.

"I know of at least one person who has put their house on the market, largely driven by the way the council has behaved."

A Highland Council spokesperson said: "A report to the City of Inverness Area Committee today will ask Councillors to note the full analysis of the responses from the recent concept design consultation exercise, note the background to the proposed permanent One Way with Cycle Contraflow Traffic Regulation Order with the representations received, and approve the making of the Road Traffic Regulation Order."