'Tragic outcome' fears over speeding in Fortrose as MSP steps in to call for Highland Council survey in response to concerns in Black Isle community
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THE constituency MSP for the Black Isle has said she hopes that Highland Council can carry out a speed survey in the near future following a spate of Fortrose residents reporting concerns about speeding on the main road into the village.
Kate Forbes MSP has received complaints about vehicles travelling "well in excess" of the 30mph limit on the A832 Canonbury Terrace, which already has a flashing sign on the westbound carriageway. The stretch between Fortrose and Avoch has a 60mph national speed limit.
Though Highland Council has added the site to its technical team’s programme for a speed survey, the local authority says it cannot give a timeframe for its completion.
“Excessive speeds, loud engines at all times of day and night and dangerous manoeuvres alongside narrow pavements can only result in a tragic outcome. The narrow pavement is used by many people, including children and older residents. " - Eleanor Treanor
Kate Forbes MSP said: “Over the last few weeks I have received a number of concerns about vehicles travelling well above 30mph on the road in out and of Fortrose.
“It’s great that further road safety measures, such as the mobile speed camera, have become operational in Avoch – but we don’t want to simply move the problem a few miles along the A832.
“Fortrose is becoming more and more popular with locals and tourists alike, more houses are going up in this part of the Black Isle, and there’s a significant amount of traffic using this particular route.
“After coming through the High Street traffic is going down a slope, and I think the temptation is for cars to speed up before they hit the 60mph zone. Equally, some drivers are not slowing down for the initial 30mph limit as they enter the village. We also have to remember Canonbury Terrace has a bus stop for the 26 service as well as the school route for Avoch Primary.
“I understand that Highland Council have limited resources, but I think this stretch of the A832 warrants a speed survey sooner rather than later.
“Until a speed survey takes place, it’s impossible to make an accurate assessment if any further speed calming measures are required.
“Meanwhile, I have also asked the police to keep an occasional eye on this stretch.”
Local resident Eleanor Treanor said: “The disregard for the 30 mph speed limit through the busy village of Fortrose is making life a misery for residents, particularly those who live on the stretch of road leaving the village towards Avoch.
“Excessive speeds, loud engines at all times of day and night and dangerous manoeuvres alongside narrow pavements can only result in a tragic outcome. The narrow pavement is used by many people, including children and older residents.
“I agree with Kate Forbes that there is an urgent need for a speed survey to be carried out as soon as resources allow. There also needs to be increased police presence and some consequence for those who continue to ignore the speed limit and safety of other road users, pedestrians and residents.”
Related: Mobile speed cameras deployed to curb Avoch speeding
