Highland Council to remove bollards on Academy Street next week

Plans to revert Academy Street to pre-Covid traffic management approved

Highland Council to remove bollards on Academy Street next week

In a significant move, the Highland Council has announced that it will remove the bollards installed on Academy Street during the Covid-19 pandemic. These posts were initially placed to widen pavements and facilitate social distancing, but their removal marks a shift back to pre-pandemic traffic management.

Background of the bollards installation

The bollards were introduced in response to the pandemic, aiming to create a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists. However, the decision to keep them has been contentious. In November 2022, Inverness councillors voted to ban private vehicles from accessing Academy Street, intending to reduce traffic and enhance the area’s appeal.

This proposal, however, faced backlash from local businesses, leading to a reevaluation of the plans.

Local traders express concerns

Local traders have been vocal about their opposition to the bollards, describing them as an eyesore and a safety hazard. One trader remarked, “Academy Street is an eyesore, plus quite dangerous with these stupid bollards still in place.” This sentiment reflects a broader frustration among business owners who believe that the bollards have negatively impacted foot traffic and accessibility.

Upcoming changes and traffic management

Following a vote on September 19, the council decided to abandon the ambitious transformation plans for Academy Street. The removal of the bollards is set to begin on November 4 and is expected to take four to five days. While most bollards will be taken down, some will remain, particularly those near the taxi rank and at the Union Street Junction, to prevent U-turns and maintain traffic flow.

As the council prepares for these changes, they have assured the public that efforts will be made to minimize disruption. Most work will occur during the day, with some activities scheduled for the evening and overnight. Drivers are advised to allow extra time for their journeys during this period.

In conclusion, the removal of the bollards on Academy Street signifies a return to traditional traffic management practices, reflecting the community’s desire for a more accessible and business-friendly environment.