17/09/2025
Some A82 updates from David Fraser Independent Councillor Aird and Loch Ness
A82 Updates Fort Augustus to Inverness.
Working with the community councils I meet with Transport Scotland to get updates on the A82. Below is a brief summary of some key issues, generally working from Fort Augustus to Inverness. Whilst I am happy to receive comments directly the best way to develop the community view on plans is at the various community council meetings. The report is written by Transport Scotland – so when they say “we” it is Transport Scotland.
1. Proposed northbound layby between Fort Augustus & Drumnadrochit
The layby is being progressed by our Minor Improvements team. Ground investigation works are planned for October 2025 to determine depth and extent of rock likely to be encountered, and to inform the detailed design and construction of a proposed northbound layby on the A82 Trunk Road at Ruskich Wood. Archaeological surveys to begin during Ground Investigation works and continue for 3 further weeks. Main construction works expected in financial year 26/27 to allow adequate time for various investigations, authorisations, and design.
2. Speed limit reduction Invermoriston – 40mph to 30mph
BEAR Road Safety team have assessed that a 30mph speed limit is not appropriate at this time. Speed and pedestrian surveys have been carried out and BEAR are to complete a report and make proposals to better manage the 40mph speed limit whilst improving pedestrian facilities. TS and BEAR met with the community and are now assessing a request for a pedestrian crossing near the car park.
3. Proposed drainage soakaway opposite fire station Drumnadrochit
Additional required filtration tests completed at the end of July. Once we receive the test results we will be able to finalise the design. The construction of the soakaway is currently programmed for November (depending on infiltration results and permission being granted from council) to avoid the main tourist season.
4. Speed limit Drum to Temple Pier
There are no committed proposals to review or alter the speed limit at this location.
5. Clansman Hotel A82 work (we discussed closing layby / solid white line / speed limit)
Layby - work is ongoing to review the implications of closing the layby.
Lining - it has been identified that current standards prevent the installation of double white lines where properties have direct access from the road. Further consideration is being given to determine whether there is sufficient merit in progressing this through an application for a departure from standards.
Speed Limit – this will be reviewed after other works have been implemented.
6. Drainage - Clansman Hotel to Abriachan corner - Filter drain investigation required
Carnell SmartScan filter drain GPR condition survey was undertaken 25th August to 5th September. We have a filter drain recycling scheme on next year’s programme for the A82 Fort William to Inverness. Depending on the results of the SmartScan survey, we can look to include the section between the Clansman to Abriachan if this is viable. Recycling may not be viable due to insufficient depth but we will have a better idea once we have received the results. We also have a discreet drainage improvement scheme on next year’s programme for the A82 between Invermoriston and Inverness, so we can look into addressing this ‘conventionally’ as part of the discreet scheme if recycling is not appropriate.
7. Drainage – Lochend - Landslides onto road for the last 2-3 years.
As things currently stand, BEAR Scotland has cleared out the ditches and culverts in the vicinity of the affected area. They also cleared out the third party private ditch. This has been done twice in the past few years, as well as repairs to the access road. Longer term, the existing culvert needs to be enlarged and a carrier drain installed in the adjacent farm, to allow surface water and water discharging off the hillside to flow under the A82 and outfall to Loch Ness. BEAR currently have a scheme on next year’s programme to address this.
8. Footpath – Invermoriston to Cemetery
Following subsequent discussions, it was agreed that whilst the requested footway link did not meet the Active Travel prioritisation criteria, it was still needed to support the local community and is considered a barrier to accessibility. As such, BEAR have been asked to investigate/design this and to identify funding from 2026/27 budget.
9. Road Surface near Boglashin (north of Cobbs memorial)
Carriageway repairs programmed for 2026/27
10. Footpath drop kerb Drumnadrochit - Kilmore Rd junction (church leg of it)
BEAR will investigate what improvements can be achieved at this crossing point at the junction of the A82 and Kilmore Road -
11. Bridge parapet needs moved to increase footway width.
TS Bridge Manager has not received any previous comms requesting assessment of bridge parapet and has indicated that in terms of the many other priorities along the network, there are no current plans to modify the structure at this time.
12. Rutting at edge of road temple pier to Abriachan (various)
There are two surfacing schemes within this area, currently programmed for FY 26/27. Both are near Pipers layby and the Clansman Hotel. This will resolve any rutting within these extents, any localised areas out with these will be inspected and defects raised to allow repair.
13. Road Markings at approach to Torvean roundabout
The main problem is that the flares and the approach lanes are short so there is a lack of space to fit the required number of advance lane arrows. The lanes are also too narrow to add text. Once 3 vehicles are waiting at the give way lines the arrows are covered, so approaching drivers are unsure which lane to use. Upright signs will be designed and installed on both A82 approaches to mirror the road marking arrow layouts that will be visible even when there are queues. We can monitor behaviour after these signs are installed.
