Traffic lights installation signals end of troublesome junction upgrade in Aviemore is in sight
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There will soon be light at the end of the tunnel for users of the junction of Dalfaber Drive and Grampian Road in Aviemore.
After nearly a year of disruption at one of the village's traffic hotspots, the traffic lights are finally being installed signalling that the project is nearly complete.
The initial completion date for the junction upgrade was midsummer, last year.
The work will see the use of four way lights control and movement of two bus stops.
The upgrade was detailed in summer 2021 as part of the improved access to the Badenoch and Strathspey Community Hospital in Dalfaber, with backers saying it was identified as a priority as part of the Active Aviemore consultation.
It is being taken forward by Highland Council and Sustrans.
Speaking at the time of the announcement of the works, Chiquita Elvin, interim head of infrastructure delivery for Sustrans Scotland, explained: “The proposed changes to the Grampian Road junction will help make it easier and safer for people to walk, wheel and cycle in Aviemore.
“As a centre of outdoor activities, it is important to make sure that people of all ages and abilities can get around the town easily on foot and on wheel.
“Public feedback will help make sure that the improved junction works for everyone.”
The works include the introduction of a signalised junction including pedestrian and cyclist crossings on all three legs of the junction.
Widened footways are also now in place.
The design also permits future connections with additional measures planned to provide people access to the centre of Aviemore.
Active Aviemore is a partnership project that aims to deliver a range of measures to assist people in travelling more actively in Aviemore.
But the project led by Pat Munro Construction has been plagued by delays and led to major congestion in the village last summer with traffic tailbacks of nearly a half-hour for northbound traffic.
Large number of residents have said that they do not see the need for the work and if it had to be done then a roundabout would have been better.
The Strathy has contacted the council for an update on the upgrade of the junction and when work is finally due to be completed.
