Major upgrades to Raigmore Interchange in Inverness face three-month delay due to emergency gas repairs

Works at one of Inverness’ busiest roundabouts are expected to be delayed by up to three months.

The £2m upgrades to the Raigmore Interchange began in January and were due to be finished in May.

But Bear Scotland confirmed on Thursday that due to emergency gas repairs, the works are unlikely to be completed before August.

SGN said it was investigating reports of gas leaks along the route, which required urgent repair to ensure tens of thousands of homes in the Inverness area would not be cut off.

Steve Taylor from Bear Scotland: “We recognise that extending works into the busy summer period may cause some additional disruption for road users and the local community.

“While some elements of the programme have been impacted by emergency third-party works, we are working closely with SGN and supply chain to maintain progress and complete the scheme as efficiently and safely as possible.

“We appreciate the continued patience of road users and the local community while these important improvements are delivered.”

The work will see permanent traffic lights being installed as well as improving pedestrian crossings and footpaths.

The interchange connects the A9, A96 and the B865 Millburn Road into the city centre.

Overnight lane closures between 7pm and 6am will continue as required to facilitate safe working and to minimise disruption.

Footways around the interchange will also be affected, with localised pedestrian diversions remaining in place to maintain safety.

An SGN spokesperson added: “We recognise that this is a very busy route and are doing everything we can to reduce the impact of our emergency works, including working closely with Bear Scotland and carrying out night-time and weekend working wherever possible.

“This is a complex project, but it is progressing well and the team are working hard to complete the repairs as soon as possible.”