Views sought on plans to ease congestion around Fort William

Residents and businesses in Lochaber have been asked to help shape plans on how to ease travel in and around Fort William.

A consultation is being held on an integrated transport plan, which aims to improve infrastructure and connectivity in the town.

There have been long-running complaints about congestion in Fort William, particularly along the A82.

People will be able to submit their views online and at a drop-in event, with hard copies of a survey also being made available.

A previous study suggested emergency services staff had reported delays getting to work, with some teachers and pupils arriving late for school due to congested traffic.

Other problems highlighted included a lack of alternative routes during road closures, poor bus accessibility and limited local rail services and connections to central Scotland.

The plan is being developed by AECOM and Stantec on behalf of Highlands and Islands Regional Transport Partnership (Hitrans), with funding coming from Highland Council and the Scottish government.

Councillor Ken Gowans, chairman of the Highland Council's economy and infastructure committee, said: "We all want to see a more efficient, sustainable and accessible transport system that connects communities, supports businesses, and unlocks growth across Fort William and Lochaber."

Frazer Coupland, chief executive of West Highland Chamber of Commerce, added: "Inadequate transport links and seasonal gridlock through Fort William have blocked growth across the West Highlands for far too long.

"This consultation is our chance to break the deadlock and drive solutions."

The integrated transport plan forms part of a wider vision for the local area, under a plan called FW2040.

Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop said the plan would deliver a long-term sustainable solution for locals and those who travel on the A82.

She said: "The integrated transport plan should increase resilience and reliability on the trunk road, improve sustainable transport and enhance the sense of place in the local community."

Leaflets will be delivered to local households, with an informal drop-in event to be held on 17 March in the Nevis Centre.

The consultation opens at 17:00 on Monday runs until 13 April.