The local community and road users will be able to view and comment on Transport Scotland’s proposals for the traffic bottleneck today and tomorrow.

The preferred option, which will be subject to further consultation, comprises of a grade-separated junction with the A9 passing over the A82. The proposal is that the existing Longman roundabout will be enlarged to incorporate two bridges with connections to the A82 and Stadium Road.

As part of the proposed scheme, grade separation at Longman will also improve access for pedestrians and cyclists compared to the existing arrangement. By allowing A9 traffic to pass over it will significantly improve accessibility for all modes of transport including pedestrians and cyclists. These proposals will be developed in further detail as we progress the development and assessment of the preferred option.

Cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity, Michael Matheson, said: “As part of the Scottish Government’s commitment within the £315 million Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal, we are taking forward our plans to improve the traffic bottleneck at Longman and we have been working hard to identify a preferred option for this important junction in the Highland capital following initial identification of five options last year.

“Through design development and assessment and taking into account the comments received on the five options, we have now got a preferred option which the local community and road users can see and comment on.

“I would encourage anyone with an interest to come along to either of the venues to view our plans of the preferred option for improving Longman junction and to have an opportunity to discuss them with our team and provide comments.

“The material on show at the events is also available to view on the scheme’s website. The vital feedback received will then be taken into account as we develop and assess the preferred option in greater detail as we look to publish draft Orders next year.”

Consultation events will take place today at Inverness Caledonian Thistle Football Stadium from 12pm to 7pm, with a second event taking place tomorrow at Inverness Town House, again from 12pm to 7pm.