Cairngorms National Park Authority, Highland Council and three community councils have submitted objections to the dualling of the A9 if a cycleway is not featured between Aviemore and Carrbridge.
If Transport Scotland do not amend their proposals to feature a cycle route then there will be a Public Inquiry into the matter, potentially delaying the construction of the A9 dualling project.
Highlands and Islands MSP, Edward Mountain is calling on the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity to ensure Transport Scotland amends it proposals so that there is a complete and unbroken cycleway from Perth to Inverness.
In Edward Mountain’s letter to the Cabinet Secretary he made the following points:
“I understand that under the current proposals the Aviemore to Carrbridge section of the A9 dualling project will not feature a cycleway. This is hugely disappointing as it means there will be a break in the cycle from Perth to Inverness. The benefits of making a complete cycle route between Perth and Inverness to safety and active travel cannot and should not be overlooked.
It is my understanding that the Cairngorms National Park Authority, Highland Council and three community councils have submitted objections to the dualling of the A9 which will only be withdrawn if a cycleway between Aviemore and Carrbridge is included.
I believe it is time for a dose of healthy common sense and for Transport Scotland to amend the proposals to ensure there is a cycleway is included and I support the position of the Park Board, Highland Council and the three Community Councils and will do so at the inevitable Public Inquiry.”
Edward Mountain also added: “It appears to me that a simple agreement could save considerable time cost and effort, improve safety, promote active travel and help contribute to reductions in vehicle use.”
