Completed Project Updates

Background

It is a long held ambition to have a path from the A9 bus stop to Juniper Drive.

The final sections 7 & 8 of the path project were put on hold by SCD in late 2018 due to concerns over cost/time associated with new hub build and lack of agreement with the Highland Council on path standards.

Opening of new Hub and COVID – 19 increased both walking/wheeling and vehicle traffic on C1121 – Sections 7 & 8 ( Shop Brae to Juniper Drive). There was a strong community wish and urgency to see off road path now constructed.

Progress Meeting

The SCD board continues to review the additional requirements imposed by the roads department to meet the conditions of planning. Local councillors were encouraged to coordinate a meeting to see if we can reach a compromise.

A site meeting was held 30^th October 2020 with senior Highland Council officials including Malcom Macleod ( Executive Chief Officer – Infrastructure and Environment) Ali Nairne and John Taylor Roads Engineers.  The Highland Council are consulting on options for a green verge (not kerbed) with occasional drain ‘off lets’ and alternative re surfacing (currently bitmac is specified) reducing the amount of retaining wall needed. However, if alternatives are found then it will probably mean applying for a formal variation to the conditions – more time and possibly more upfront cost if technical drawings are needed, but would result in a reduction in capital cost.

Challenges identified – Section 7 Bridge, Embankment, Crash barriers, land take, traffic calming.

Actions – The Highland Council have been back on site to undertake road surveys.

Engineering reports previously commissioned by SCD, contractor estimates for Section 8 and funding options are being re-visited by SCD.

Active travel/safe routes to school budgets administered through The Highland Council are underspent. Sustrans standards are not really appropriate for rural setting like Tomatin.  

There is a possible opportunity to help address parking space issues at the hub at the same time.

Updates – We hope to have a response from the Highland Council soon and will keep everyone updated.