20mph roll-out welcomed in Kilmallie

Transport Scotland has invited Highland Council to be a pilot local authority for the National 20mph Implementation Strategy.

 

The strategy seeks to introduce a consistency for 20mph speed limits across the country with the aim of promoting road safety.

 

In order to bring this forward, suitability assessments are currently being carried out across 130 sites around the Council Area ahead of the roll out of 20mph speed limits to communities across the Highlands.

 

These assessments are taking place where speed limits of 30mph or below already exist. The assessments are to see which sites meet the Scottish Governments New Place criteria.

 

So concerned were Kilmallie Community Council about potential danger on the roads around Fort William that they had already taken matters into their own hands by issuing 30mph stickers to households and campaigning for a 20mph limit in certain areas.

 

'It was good to hear about the Highland Council initiative,' said secretary Russell Leaper.

 

'Kilmallie Community Council has been pushing for slower speeds through our settlements for many years.

 

'We now have 20mph limits on many of the minor roads (which are the responsibility of Highland Council) in Corpach and through Banavie and Camaghael, and hope that these measures will be made permanent allowing more effective enforcement.'

 

Mr Leaper and fellow members insist that road safety on the A830 trunk road remains a serious concern for many Kilmallie residents and much of the problem is associated with vehicle speeds.

 

'Slower speeds though Corpach and at critical crossing locations such as the Banavie swing bridge would be a major contribution to improved road safety,' he added.

 

'We are still waiting for the outcome of the Transport Scotland speed limit review for the A830 but would welcome any initiatives to reduce traffic speeds through residential areas and along sections with difficult or dangerous crossing points.'

 

A report on the programme will be presented at the economy and infrastructure committee on November 10 which will update members on the work that the council’s Road Safety Team are doing to prepare for the roll out which is due to be completed by summer 2023.

 

Once all assessments are completed, details of where the 20mph roll outs will be located will be provided and promoted on the council’s website. All costs of the roll out to the council will be fully funded by Transport Scotland (Scottish Government).

 

Chairperson of the economy and infrastructure committee, Councillor Ken Gowans said: 'The scale of this road safety project, which will have significant benefits for the safety of all road users within the Highland Area, is unprecedented and I personally feel it is one of the most important pieces of work the council is currently leading on.'

 

A Transport Scotland spokesperson added: 'Implementation of the strategy will have a positive impact on the perceptions of road danger whilst encouraging people to walk, wheel and cycle. It will create more pleasant streets and neighbourhoods, supporting Scotland’s health, safety and active travel aspirations across Scotland.'