New figures raise concerns over notoriously dangerous stretch of road on NC500's A835 between Gorstan and Tarvie
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New figures from Transport Scotland have revealed the volume of road accidents which have taken place on a notoriously dangerous stretch of road in Ross-shire, over the last eight years.
The new figures reveal the volume of accidents which have taken place on the stretch of road between the Gorstan and Contin junctions on the A835, through Tarvie.
The statistics were obtained through a Freedom of Information request to Scotland's national transport agency, which is responsible for delivering the Scottish Government's vision for transport.
The statistics show that nearly every year the seven mile road through Tarvie sees accidents, where those involved are often left injured, or killed.
The dangerous area has since seen a fatal accident, where a man (65) was killed in a collision between a car and motorbike on the trunk road, on April 16 2023.
Locally, the road is often described as a corkscrew, due to its slopes and hills with sharp turns, which can prove difficult for even the most experienced of drivers.
The new figures have left concerns about the dangers of the route through Ross–shire, and what can be done to improve it.
MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, Maree Todd said: “I often hear from constituents in the communities of Garve and Contin who are worried about the speed of vehicles passing through the villages and of the risks to pedestrians and other road users.
“We also know that several serious road traffic accidents have occurred on the A835 over the years, particularly between the areas of Gorstan and Contin. I am in contact with Transport Scotland about this and have previously enquired about traffic calming measures and speed monitoring to improve road safety on the busy route.
“With increased traffic on the road over the coming summer months, I am keen to find out what Police Scotland is doing over the summer to monitor the speed of vehicles and improve driver’s awareness of the dangers of driving on rural roads. I have contacted Police Scotland to ask for an update on their planned activities.”
Do you have concerns about this stretch of road? Contact us by emailing newsdesk@hnmedia.co.uk
