Fort_William_Strategic_Transport_Study_Pre_Appraisal_Final_Report_August_2018_Public

Introduction

Introduction and Approach

In December 2017, AECOM was tasked with identifying transport issues and developing a strategic approach for the future enhancement of Fort William's transport network through a Pre-Appraisal Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance (STAG) study.

Appraisal) project steering group comprises the Highlands and Islands Regional Transport Partnership

(HITRANS), The Highland Council (THC), Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and Transport Scotland (TS)

The study focuses on the anticipated development of Fort William, aligning with the growth allocations outlined in the proposed West Highlands and Islands Local Development Plan, as well as recent approvals for the expansion of the Lochaber Aluminium Smelter in the area.

The overarching aim of the Pre-Appraisal stage of transport appraisal is to establish if there is an evidence-based case for change Pre-Appraisal aims to:

 Establish evidence for problems and issues linked to transport in a specific area or corridor – key sources of evidence include data and engagement with stakeholders and the public

 Identify opportunities and constraints that could exacerbate transport issues in the future and influence the development of solutions

 Develop initial Transport Planning Objectives to clarify the aims of any interventions, and to guide the development of solutions

 Develop a long list of possible options to tackle identified problems, and undertake an initial sifting exercise culminating in recommendations on a shorter list of options for progression towards Initial Appraisal

An overview of the approach undertaken in this study is presented below .

Geographic Scope of Project

The geographic scope of the Study Area is illustrated in the map shown on Figure 1-1

This covers the extent of the settlement of Fort William, encompassing the Town Centre, Inverlochy, Caol, Corpach, Banavie and Torlundy

• Agreement on project approach, objectives, key deliverables and initial issues

• Data review to produce evidence of issues and create a baseline for monitoring

• Stakeholders with a role to play in transport delivery, trip generation and experience impacts

• The public who make trips and experience the impacts of transport and related issues

Task 5: Analysis of problems and opportunities

• Produce Summary Paper up to this point

Task 6: Setting of Transport Planning Objectives

• TPOs developed to clarify what any investment seeks to achieve

• Tested through engagement, and informed by problems and opportunities

• Produce a long list of all possible interventions

• Agree criteria against which the initial options list is tested

• Sifting of options, if appropriate, and record rationale

• Produce a short list of interventions

• Draft report for client review

• Final report for public record

• Commentary on next steps in appraisal process and key areas of focus in the Initial Appraisal

• Draft Report (including write-up of engagement activity)

Figure 1-1 Map of Study Area

Structure of this Report

This Report presents the findings of all work carried out in this Pre-Appraisal study This report is structured as follows:

 Section 2: Policy and Document Review;

 Section 5: Problems and Opportunities, Issues and Constraints

 Section 7: Option Generation and Sifting; and

Policy and Document Review

Introduction

This Strategic Transport Study (Pre-Appraisal) addresses various policy areas, including transport, planning, social inclusion, economic development, and environmental concerns A comprehensive review of existing action plans and relevant policy documents has been conducted to support the objectives of this study.

This study's draft Transport Planning Objectives are shaped by significant policy directives at the national, regional, and local levels, reflecting their importance and relevance in guiding transportation planning efforts.

- Problems, issues and constraints that have already been identified for the study area, which has informed the Pre-Appraisal analysis of these issues (see chapter 5)

- Opportunities that can be built upon for the study area (see chapter 5)

- Suggested and/or committed interventions already proposed for the study area to tackle some of the documented problems (see chapter 7).

Policy and Document Review

A fuller review of key policies and documents of relevance to this study is presented in Appendix A with a summary provided below

The 2009 Strategic Transport Projects Review recognized significant constraints on the A82, including a lack of alternative routes and congestion The updated National Transport Strategy (2016) also addressed issues on the A82 and emphasized the need for investment in the West Highland Line The 2017 Regional Transport Strategy by HITRANS called for a STAG-based study to investigate transport challenges and solutions in Fort William Ongoing regional documents highlight persistent problems, such as long travel times between Fort William and the Central Belt, limited accessibility, and poor geographic connectivity The Highland Local Transport Strategy aims to create an integrated transport network that fosters safe and sustainable environments for residents and travelers alike.

The West Highlands and Islands Local Development Plan (LDP) includes allocation FW26 for land near the Lochaber Aluminium Smelter in Fort William, which is set to host a new alloy wheel manufacturing facility This development is projected to create around 400 jobs, driving significant growth in the area alongside necessary housing and services Furthermore, an accompanying Transport Background Paper emphasizes the need for infrastructure enhancements to support this anticipated expansion in Fort William.

The 2010 Active Travel Audit identifies the A82 as a significant barrier in the town, raising safety concerns for pedestrians and cyclists Similarly, the 2015 Fort William Town Centre Action Plan emphasizes the necessity for improved infrastructure for these groups Additionally, the plan reveals that a public consultation indicated that summer traffic congestion deters local residents from visiting the town centre.

1 Establish evidence for problems and issues linked to transport in a specific area or corridor

2 Identify opportunities and constraints that could exacerbate transport issues in the future and influence the development of solutions.

3 Develop initial Transport Planning Objectives to clarify the aims of any interventions, and to guide the development of solutions.

4 Develop a long list of possible options to tackle identified problems, and undertake an initial sifting exercise culminating in recommendations on a shorter list of options for progression towards Initial Appraisal.

Setting national transport priorities for investment The multi-modal and objective led appraisal process in the

STPR refers to 'Targeted Programme of Measures to Improve Road

Oban/Fort William (A82)' Carriageway widening at selected locations between Corran Ferry and Fort William is noted as a measure

Plan setting out why, how and what in infrastructure investment in Scotland

Problems and opportunities from a Scotland wide level are applicable to the study area e.g geographic and digital connectivity issues and opportunities arising from new powers to support capital investment

Aligned with the Economic Strategy, this study emphasizes the importance of sustainable economic growth in Scotland It highlights potential risks, such as flooding and rising costs, alongside opportunities like the transition to a low carbon economy, which could create additional employment across the region.

Lochaber Local Priorities Committee Paper (2018)

Committee Paper setting out priotiries, proposed actions and delivery timelines

Priority A is A82 Realignment and Priority

B is Transport Infrastructure Outlines that there is a negative impact on the local economy due to traffic issues

Fort William Town Centre Action Plan (2015)

Provides a steer for projects which could be delivered should funding opportunities arise, or where planning applications might help to make them a reality

Problems and opportuntiies to deliver regeneration in the town centre also detailed

This article outlines the current state of infrastructure for active travel and suggests priorities for future investment Key recommendations include implementing a comprehensive route signage strategy, enhancing the quality of the Great Glen Way, and developing safe walking and cycling routes along the A830 and A82.

Proposed Alloy Wheel Facility Transport Assessement (2017)

There are currently around 1770 staff at the site and approximately 80% travel to the site as single vehicle occupants (over five shifts)

Pedestrian and cycling links between the Smelter site and Glen Nevis Business Park could be improved

Highland Action Plan for Economic Development

The economic development plan for the Highland area focuses on creating new private sector and social economy jobs Key themes include fostering indigenous business growth, tackling youth unemployment, and generating short-term employment opportunities to offset public sector cuts.

The Highland Community Planning Partnership aims to enhance the region through specific actions focused on improving public transport While the article does not address issues unique to Fort William, it highlights potential transport interventions, including increased awareness and coordination of public transport services, development of the transport market, and investment in community transport initiatives.

The Scottish Government's economic strategy focuses on key areas for growth, including investment in people, infrastructure, and assets By fostering a culture of innovation and promoting inclusive growth, Scotland aims to capitalize on international opportunities, ensuring that these priorities are relevant across the entire region.

West Highland and Islands LDP Committee Paper (2018)

Committee paper to one of the three area committees affected by proposals within the Proposed West Highlands and Islands LDP

Comments on retention of Fort William road- based proposals.

Scotland's top-level transport policy document highlights significant trends, such as a decline in bus patronage across the region, which may impact the study area Additionally, the National Transport Strategy (NTS) mentions improvements to the A82, primarily targeting locations south of Fort William, including Crainlarich, Tarbert, and Pulpit.

The strategy encompasses essential policies and programs designed to meet its defined objectives, which focus on nine key areas: economic growth, social inclusion, environmental sustainability, health improvement, road safety, personal safety, policy integration, investment integration, and traffic reduction.

Proposed West Highland and Islands Local Development Plan (2017)

Details development allocations over next twenty years

Ppportunities in Fort William, include Blar Mor, Annat Farm, Upper Achintore, the Aluminium Smelter, former Paper Mill Transport Background Paper references priority projects

Draft HITRANS Regional Transport Strategy (2016)

Regional transport policy document Region-wide problems identified which may be applicable to Fort

William include a need to reduce journey times between the region and areas to the south, a lack of accessibility and increasing journey times between

Fort William and Inverness between 2009 and 2016

Opportunities include those related to economic development and funding opportunities

Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) Operating

The primary aim of HIE is to foster sustainable and inclusive economic growth throughout the region While there are no direct mentions of Fort William, the town stands to benefit from various opportunities that could enhance employment creation and promote growth and development.

The Existing Situation and Future Change

Introduction

At the Pre-Appraisal stage, it is crucial to analyze the current transport, socio-economic, and environmental landscape of Fort William, as well as potential future changes This analysis aids in identifying existing challenges and opportunities, offering insights into the anticipated developments within the study area over the coming years.

This study involved the preparation of transport, socio-economic, and development baselines to document the current transport provisions and socio-economic context in the study area It also identified committed development proposals within the local development plan and included a review of environmental issues This chapter presents an overview of the existing situation and anticipates potential changes in the study area in the coming years.

Transport Baseline

The Transport Baseline offers a comprehensive assessment of the current transportation landscape in the study area, divided into supply-side and demand-side analyses The supply-side focuses on existing transport infrastructure, public transport services, ticketing, and freight routing, while the demand-side examines the factors influencing transport and the performance of the network This includes a detailed analysis of travel time variability, roadside interviews, traffic trends, Census data, Hands Up Survey results, and public transport passenger satisfaction.

This section provides a summary of the Transport Baseline; full details can be found in Appendix B

This section summarizes transport supply, focusing on active travel, public transport, and road infrastructure according to the modal hierarchy It will also cover public transport ticketing options and available services.

The Fort William & Lochaber area has been branded as the ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’ by the Lochaber

Chamber of Commerce (LCOC) LCOC promotes the areas unrivalled access to amongst other things, water sports, snow sports, hill climbing, walking, and cycling

The Study Area offers a variety of mountain bike and off-road trails, while the National Cycle Network Route 78 (NCN78) facilitates utility cycling by connecting Fort William to Oban and Inverness via the Great Glen along the Caledonia Way Additionally, shared-use cycle facilities alongside the A82 provide a safe off-road link, separated from vehicle traffic, between Fort William and Torlundy.

Stage 8 of the West Highland Way concludes in Fort William, covering a 24.5km stretch south to Kinlochleven, with the route continuing all the way to Milngavie beyond Kinlochleven.

Walk & cycle routes are illustrated in the Figure below

Figure 3-1 Study Area Walk/Cycle Routes

The National Public Transport Access Nodes (NaPTAN) catalogues the locations of all bus stops across the UK, categorizing them into types such as on-street and bus-stance stops A map in Appendix B illustrates the distribution of on-street bus stops within the Study Area, revealing a balanced arrangement of bus stops throughout the urbanized region.

The Town Centre bus station features multiple stances for local and inter-urban services, providing electronic bus information for passengers Additionally, Middle Street serves as a key bus hub in Fort William, located to the west of the town centre.

Fort William serves as a vital tourist hub and a significant town in the Highland region, evidenced by the variety of local and inter-urban transport services available Details on routes and operating frequencies can be found in Appendix B However, it's important to mention that Stagecoach announced the closure of its Fort William depot in June 2018.

The Study Area features nearly 30 services, with varying frequencies, primarily operating on schooldays, resulting in limited weekend availability, especially on Sundays Additionally, several mid to long-distance services connect Fort William to other key locations in the Highlands and the Central Belt, enhancing regional connectivity.

The Study Area features three rail stations: Fort William, Banavie, and Corpach, each equipped with specific facilities as outlined in the accompanying table.

Bike Parking Car Parking Step Free

1 At the time of writing, August 2018, bus routes have changed operator but remain largely in place

Bike Parking Car Parking Step Free

Fort William Yes 24 spaces 50 spaces Yes Yes Yes

Banavie Yes 10 spaces 5 spaces Yes No No

Corpach Yes 6 spaces No No No No

Among the three stations in the Study Area, Fort William stands out as the only station that offers full accessibility, featuring level access to the platforms and ramp access to the train.

Each station offers interchange options, with a notable emphasis on the availability of cycle parking, which constitutes a significant portion of the total parking capacity for both bikes and cars Additionally, Fort William Station features on-site cycle hire services provided by Nevis Cycles.

The primary rail services in the Study Area are provided by Scotrail along the Glasgow to Fort William West Highland Line, while Serco Caledonian Sleeper offers connections from Fort William to London The operating frequency of these services is outlined in the table below.

Table 3-2 Fort William Rail Services

Location Service Operator Mon-Fri Saturday Sunday

William Scotrail Four services per day

One service per day (Two services per day from 25 March 2018)

One service per day No services One service per day

One service per day (Two services per day from 25 March 2018)

One service per day One service per day One service per day

One service per day (Two services per day from 25 March 2018)

One service per day One service per day One service per day

The Study Area has good connections to the Central Belt and England, as well as ferry services to western island communities However, there are only 10 daily train services from Edinburgh to Inverness, some requiring changes at Perth Notably, there is a significant gap in the train schedule from Fort William to the Central Belt, with trains departing only at 11:41 AM and 5:37 PM Additionally, the lack of a direct rail link between Fort William and Inverness means that bus services are the only public transport option available for travelers between these locations.

The rail journey from Glasgow to Fort William lasts approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes, while the fastest train from Edinburgh to Inverness takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes Due to the Central Belt timetable, day trips to Fort William are challenging, allowing only about five hours of exploration from midday In contrast, driving from Glasgow to Fort William is quicker, taking roughly three hours.

It is also noted that the Jacobite Express steam train is a popular tourist attraction/service which carries around

325 passengers per journey between Fort William and Mallaig during tourist season (April to October) From May to September two services per day operate

A number of integrated ticketing opportunities are on offer for public transport in the Study Area These include:

Plusbus offers an affordable way to enhance your rail ticket by including unlimited local bus travel in Fort William With a Fort William Plusbus ticket, you can explore the urban area and travel to nearby destinations such as Keppanach, Kinlochleven, and Glencoe, all while enjoying the convenience of participating bus operators For more information, visit [Plusbus](http://www.plusbus.info/fortwilliam).

Ballachulish It should be noted the website only names Stagecoach as a participating operator

Socio-Economic Baseline

This section provides an overview of the Socio-Economic Baseline, based on:

 Labour Market (Occupations, Economic activity rates, Claimant rate and Employee jobs by sector); and

 Residents (Qualifications, Salary, House prices and Deprivation)

These factors are important to understand for the Study Area, as:

Transport is essential for economic development as it facilitates investment and enhances access to employment opportunities By improving connectivity, it fosters inclusive growth, ensuring that all segments of society share in the benefits of economic progress.

 Transport can play a role in access to education and quality of life generally, in particular, social inclusion

 STAG supports a wide view of the impact of transport investment, with appraisal criteria across Safety, Environment, Integration, Accessibility and Economy

As of mid-2016, the Fort William area had a total population of 10,304, which encompasses Fort William, Caol, Inverlochy, Corpach, and Banavie Detailed population statistics by data zone are available in Table 3-8, and a map illustrating the boundaries of each data zone is shown in Figure 3-28.

Table 3-8 Fort William Population by Data Zone

Data Zone Name Total 2016 population

The population of the study area has seen a modest increase, rising from 10,262 in 2011, which reflects a growth rate of just 0.4% If significant population declines were to happen in the coming years, it could adversely affect the town's economic growth and development According to the National Records of Scotland, such demographic changes warrant close attention.

According to the 2016 population estimates from National Records of Scotland, the Highland Council's population is expected to grow by 3.4% from 2014 to 2039 While this growth rate is lower than the overall projected increase of 6.6% for Scotland, it still signifies a positive trend in population growth for the region.

The new alloy wheel facility at the Smelter site east of Fort William is anticipated to create approximately 400 jobs in its initial phase However, it remains unclear how many of these positions will be filled by the local workforce versus how many will contribute to a population increase in the area.

The age structure of Fort William closely aligns with that of the Highland region and Scotland overall, as illustrated in Figure 3-25 Notably, there are slight variations between Fort William and Scotland in the 0-15 and 25-44 age groups, with a 2% difference observed in Fort William's demographics compared to the national figures.

Fort William has a higher percentage of residents aged 0-15 compared to the national average in Scotland, indicating potential for future economic growth However, the town may face challenges in retaining young individuals as they transition into adulthood and in attracting those who have left for higher education back to the area.

Fort William's labour market features diverse employment sectors, highlighted by the upcoming Liberty alloy wheel manufacturing site, which is projected to create approximately 400 jobs This development is expected to boost the town's economy significantly and will influence employment sector statistics once operational For more detailed information about the site, refer to section 3.5.3.

Economic activity rates for the study area are shown in the table below and are compared against Highland and Scotland averages

14 https://www.nrscotland.gov.uk/statistics-and-data/statistics/statistics-by-theme/population/population-projections/sub-national- population-projections/2014-based

15 National Records of Scotland Mid-2016 population estimates

The 2011 Census local level data is accessible exclusively for Fort William, Caol, and Corpach & Banavie While this data encompasses most of the study area, it does not provide comprehensive statistics for the entire region.

Looking after home or family 3.7% 3.8% 3.6%

Long term sick or disabled 4.2% 3.9% 5.1%

Economic activity reflects an individual's engagement in the labor market, indicating whether they were working or seeking work in the week prior to the census In the study area, 73.6% of individuals are economically active, surpassing the Scottish average by 4.6% This data suggests a robust economic performance in Fort William, although it is essential to consider the nature of the employment available (refer to Tables 3-10 and 3-11) Additionally, the proportion of individuals in part-time or full-time employment in this region exceeds that of both the Highland region and Scotland overall.

Scotland averages The high proportion of part time workers may indicate potential underemployment 19

The lack of underemployment data makes it difficult to conclusively determine the impact of the high percentage of part-time jobs, which may reflect seasonal employment trends Additionally, the role of transportation in potential underemployment remains unclear, although consultations have highlighted that inadequate public transport connectivity is a broader concern in the study area.

It is also noted that unemployment is lower in the study area compared to across Scotland (4.0% compared to

4.8%), though it is in line with the Highland average

Occupation statistics provide a general overview compared to the industry statistics outlined in Table 3-11

Sectors have been grouped into occupation types, as shown in Table 3-11

All persons 16 to 74 in employment 5,256 115,270 2,516,895

% Managers, directors and senior officials 9.6

% Associate professional and technical occupations 7.6

18 See Economic Activity definition under Variables section here: https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/census/2011/qs601ew

According to the Office for National Statistics, an individual is considered underemployed if they meet specific criteria: they must be willing to work additional hours, be available to do so, and have worked fewer hours than the established work threshold.

The 2011 Census local level data is exclusively available for Fort William, Caol, and Corpach & Banavie While this data encompasses a significant portion of the study area, it does not provide comprehensive statistics for the entire region.

% Caring, leisure and other service occupations 10.1

% Sales and customer service occupations 9.7

% Process, plant and machine operatives 11.5

The National Records of Scotland categorizes occupations into a hierarchy from 1 to 9, with Managers and senior officials at level 1 and Elementary occupations at level 9 In the Study Area, Skilled trades occupations represent the largest share of employment, encompassing various roles such as agricultural workers, engineers, and food specialists, and are approximately one-third higher than the Scotland average Additionally, Elementary occupations, which make up 15.9% of jobs in the Study Area, exceed the Scotland average of 11.6%, indicating a significant presence of these roles in the local workforce.

Fort William serves as a vital regional service center, highlighted by its above-average concentration of sales and customer service jobs This underscores its role as a hub for local and regional services, making accessibility to and from the settlement crucial for the regional economy.

Environment Baseline

Incorporating environmental factors early in the planning process is crucial for identifying potential issues and opportunities, allowing for necessary mitigation strategies During the Pre-Appraisal phase, consultations with environmental agencies were conducted to pinpoint key environmental concerns in the Fort William area, including flood risks and the existence of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), ensuring these factors are addressed as the study advances.

Emerging solutions in the Study Area should focus on enhancing protected areas around Fort William while minimizing any negative impacts Scottish Natural Heritage highlighted that sections of the Ben Nevis and Glen Coe National Scenic Area (NSA) are adjacent to the Study Area along the A82 This NSA attracts visitors for its stunning views, and it is essential to ensure that visual amenity remains unaffected.

Achintore features a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) situated uphill from the A82, while the Ben Nevis Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and SSSI is located within 1 km of the road It is essential to consider the potential sensitivity of these sites when planning developments Enhancements in traffic flow could lead to a reduction in air pollution impacts on these environmentally significant areas.

A number of nationally important heritage assets within the Study Area have been identified by Historic

Environment Scotland which could be impacted by any improvements:

 Remains of Cromwell's Fort, Fort William (SM 2174)

 Battle of Inverlochy II (BTL 24)

 Caledonian Canal, Corpach to Banavie (SM 6491)

 Caledonian Canal, Neptune's Staircase, Canal Locks, Banavie (SM 3530)

 Caledonian Canal, Banavie to Moy Bridge (SM 6492)

 Roman Catholic Church of St Mary and the Immaculate Conception and Enclosing Walls with Gate Piers (category A-listed HB No 31780)

These assets will be taken into consideration as the study progresses

SEPA emphasizes the importance of considering flood risk in the town during the initial phase of the study Their mapping indicates that significant portions of the Study Area are at risk of flooding To address this issue, a Flood Management Scheme is proposed for implementation in the areas of Caol and Lochyside.

Future Change in the Study Area

This section outlines the expected future developments in the Study Area, aligning with the West Highland and Islands Proposed Local Development Plan Recent consultations with The Highland Council emphasize that the Proposed Local Development Plan is the most current reference for the Proposed LDP review Additionally, a review of pertinent planning applications concerning the Smelter site has been conducted, along with a brief assessment of the adopted Highland-wide Local Development Plan.

3.5.1 West Highland and Islands Local Development Plan

The Council has approved the Proposed WestPlan, outlining strategies for growth delivery following a public consultation in 2017 Although not formally adopted, the Plan is at an advanced stage and is considered the most current document for this overview, eliminating the need for a detailed review of the West Highland & Islands Local Plan from April 2012.

Table 3-20 outlines the development allocations within the Study Area, as illustrated in the accompanying map provided by The Highland Council Notably, proposed housing and mixed-use developments in Spean Bridge may increase travel demands on Fort William, which serves as the regional service center.

Table 3-20 Proposed West Highland and Islands Local Development Plan Allocations

Allocation Allocation Name Area Indicative

FW01 Annat Farm Corpach 130 14.3 ha

FW04 North East of Health

FW05 Lundavra Road Fort William Town

FW08 Blar Mor Caol 130 20.6 ha

FW09 Carr’s Corner Inverlochy 40 4.2 ha

FW15 West of Corpach Corpach - 11.9 ha

FW19 Corpach Locks Corpach - 1.5 ha

FW20 Smelter Tailrace Inverlochy - 1.2 ha

Allocation Allocation Name Area Indicative

FW23 Heathercroft Drive Fort William Town

FW25 North of Blar Mor

FW26 Aluminium Smelter and Adjoining Land

FW27 North Road Inverlochy - 2.0 ha

Figure 3-30 Proposed West Highland and Islands LDP land allocations in Fort William Study Area

The Proposed WestPlan allocates a total of 79.9 hectares for development within the Study Area, which includes Fort William, Inverlochy, Caol, and Corpach, indicating a capacity for 820 houses Of this area, only 27.4 hectares is designated specifically for housing, while the remaining 52.5 hectares is categorized as Mixed Use land, encompassing Community, Business, and Retail spaces alongside housing Additionally, there are long-term housing allocations at Lochyside Common Grazings and Upper Achintore South, covering 17.4 hectares and 5.9 hectares, respectively.

The industrial sector occupies approximately 150 hectares of land, with the majority dedicated to the Aluminium Smelter and adjacent areas, including the former paper mill site and its surroundings.

In terms of indicative housing capacity by area, Fort William Town Centre and Corpach have a similar allocation

Inverlochy has an allocation of 40 houses designated for Mixed Use land, which is notably lower than the housing capacities in Fort William Town Centre and Caol, where 380 and 130 houses are planned, respectively Despite the absence of a specified housing capacity in Inverlochy, the allocation still reflects a demand for residential development in the area.

Inverlochy has 46% of the allocated industrial land, while Corpach accounts for 47%, and the remainder is situated in Caol Notably, there are no industrial land allocations within the Fort William Town Centre.

In April 2018, a committee report outlined a vision for Fort William's development and assets as part of the proposed West Highland and Islands Local Development Plan for the Lochaber Area, aiming for a transformative outlook by 2040.

3.5.2 Highland-wide Local Development Plan

A review of the Highland-Wide Local Development Plan does not indicate any development within Fort William that is not included in the West Highland and Islands Local Development Plan

As a significant development in the Fort William area, this section looks in more detail at the Liberty British Aluminium Site

Liberty Lochaber Aluminium Ltd has submitted a planning application to The Highland Council to establish an alloy wheel manufacturing facility near the existing Lochaber Aluminium Smelter, located adjacent to North Road (A82) on the western side of Fort William This site, designated as allocation FW26 in the Proposed West Highland and Islands Local Development Plan, spans 44 hectares and is projected to create around 400 new jobs.

37 https://www.highland.gov.uk/meetings/meeting/3954/lochaber_committee

In January 2018, the South Planning Applications Committee recommended granting planning permission for a new alloy wheel manufacturing facility, which will feature a 31,300 sqm building, enhancements to the existing access road, and 150 car parking spaces The facility will primarily utilize the current access point at the new roundabout on the A82, while plans also include an additional access route from Ben Nevis Drive through Glen Nevis Business Park for HGV exits, as well as provisions for pedestrian and cyclist access, and emergency services.

In 2017, Systra conducted a Transport Assessment (TA) for Liberty Lochaber Aluminium Ltd to support the planning application for a new alloy wheel development The TA aimed to evaluate both current and future transportation issues related to the proposed development site.

The proposed facility will adhere to the same operational shift patterns as the current smelter, running from 7am to 7pm and 7pm to 7am, as mandated by the planning permission The Traffic Assessment (TA) indicates that the application allows for a maximum of 220 staff on site during shift changeovers.

According to the 2011 Scotland Census data, around 80% of staff are anticipated to commute as drivers in private cars, which translates to approximately 96 car drivers for the day shift and 80 for the night shift The Transport Authority views this as a minimal increase in vehicles on the network.

 A 150 space car park is considered to be sufficient, although the situation will be monitored and further spaces will be added if required

 The site will be accessible by a range of sustainable modes

 The development integrates well into the existing transport network

 The development is in accordance with local and national transport policy requirements

 There would be no adverse impact on the surrounding road network as a result of the sites development

The Traffic Modelling exercise confirms that the surrounding road network will not be adversely affected, primarily due to the projected low volume of vehicles.

The proposed West Highland and Islands Local Development Plan indicates that the addition to the road network in Fort William will primarily occur during non-peak commuter times A detailed traffic modeling exercise, outlined in the supporting non-technical summary, confirms that the anticipated development will have a negligible impact on the existing road network, beyond the effects of already committed developments and natural traffic growth Consequently, the modeling concludes that no mitigation measures for the road network are necessary due to this development.

Engagement

Introduction

Engaging transport users and stakeholders involved in transport supply is crucial for effective transport appraisal, as it helps identify key problems and issues This study outlines its engagement approach in the accompanying figure.

Stakeholder Interviews

Stakeholders identified in the inception report were interviewed via telephone, in-person, and email to collect insights on transport-related issues in Fort William This evidence-gathering process is crucial during the pre-appraisal stage of the STAG framework.

The following table documents stakeholders spoken to, and a summary of the discussion Each summary is in the process of being agreed with the stakeholders in question

Face to face / telephone in- depth stakeholder interviews

Focus group with travelling public and Placecheck tool

Writing to Community Councils, attendance at Fort William Traffic Congestion Group

Drop in town engagement session in Fort William

Stakeholder workshop on objectives and options

Stakeholder Approach Summary of Points put forward by consultee

In writing Annual traffic gridlock through the town, from Easter through to November (season has lengthened over the years)

Can take well over an hour to go a few miles

Affects local people, visitors and businesses

Development along North Road has surged, with new roundabouts installed at the Inverlochy and Liberty Aluminium entrances; however, these changes have not impacted traffic volume As Liberty Aluminium plans to expand its workforce in the coming years, alongside the construction of a new hospital and additional housing, traffic congestion may become a growing concern.

A82 bottleneck at roundabout and bridge over River Nevis Short-term action here will not resolve all the problems

Poor cycling facilities in town for a town that is promoted as Outdoor Capital of the UK Poor routes, signage and cycle parking

In writing Attended stakeholder workshop

In writing Attended stakeholder workshop

In writing Attended stakeholder workshop

In writing Attended stakeholder workshop

In person at Fort William Traffic Congestion group

The Fort William area and its surrounding communities face significant transportation challenges due to its geography The A82 is the primary route connecting these settlements, but the absence of alternative routes, coupled with the high costs of potential diversions, places a considerable economic burden on Lochaber, possibly the highest in Scotland This route is frequently closed due to various incidents, and with seasonal traffic on the rise, the perception is that the tourist season extends longer each year.

Delay adds a cost to people and goods moving around and through the area Also implications for emergency services

Stakeholder Approach Summary of Points put forward by consultee

Future development planned in Fort William, and transport network is already under pressure

The active travel network is a practical initiative that requires enhancements, particularly prioritizing active travel to schools Implementing small improvements, such as installing dropped kerbs and controlled crossings, can significantly aid pedestrians in navigating busy roads safely.

Lack of alternative rail routes is also an issue, and timetable not ideal for commuting

The transport hub in the town center faces significant challenges, including a wide and busy road that detracts from its appeal as a welcoming gateway for visitors arriving by train or bus Additionally, the active travel infrastructure from Camanachd Crescent to the High Street is notably inadequate, highlighting the need for improvements to enhance accessibility and attractiveness for pedestrians and cyclists.

Solutions could include A82 realignment, footbridge or active travel link between Inverlochy and Caol, dedicated routes for emergency service vehicles, improving sea links for freight and business

In person at Fort William Traffic Congestion group

Lack of infrastructure in the area is its biggest problem

The old Nevis bridge and its roundabout are major traffic bottlenecks, as their narrow design forces lorries and buses to halt and yield to one another, leading to significant congestion Similarly, Achintore Road experiences the same issues, exacerbating traffic delays Additionally, roadwork in these areas is complicated, requiring convoy operations or nighttime schedules to minimize disruption.

The area is bustling with tourists and serves as a primary route to Skye, experiencing a shorter off-season each year As a local business owner in the tourist accommodation sector, I’ve noticed a rise in road trips across the Highlands and Islands, alongside an increase in cycle tourism, despite the challenging road network for cyclists However, there is a slight concern that heavy congestion may lead travelers to bypass Fort William if delays occur on their journey.

Rail services could be improved in the area, particularly from Banavie and Corpach for rail commuting

Reasonable bus services in the area though they too get caught up in traffic congestion

The local economy is thriving, supported by numerous small industries and larger employers, including light engineering companies that provide essential services to Liberty and marine aquaculture businesses However, congestion in the area poses significant costs to these industries Additionally, there is a pressing shortage of housing, further impacting the community.

Priority investment needed in A82 realignment to provide an alternative route

Traffic heading to the ferries at Mallaig can significantly disrupt traffic flow in Fort William, particularly when convoys are involved The Banavie swing bridge can extend these convoys, further affecting traffic levels at the Lochy Bridge roundabout, which also accommodates convoys from the Laggan, Aberchalder, and Fort Augustus swing bridges This influx of traffic ultimately merges with the local southbound and north/east traffic, exacerbating congestion in the area.

The stakeholder approach highlights concerns regarding traffic congestion that occurs after vehicles pass through the Lochybridge roundabout, particularly at the Nevis Bridge roundabout Additionally, the transportation of wind turbines may contribute to similar traffic delays, creating a convoy effect that exacerbates the situation.

John Hutchison, member of Fort

Fort William's transport history and the A82 have been shaped by a complex interplay of local and national government responsibilities, which have hindered progress on necessary improvements to the A82 over the years.

Traffic congestion on the A82 poses a significant challenge that requires urgent attention The trunk road is intended to facilitate through traffic; however, the numerous junctions and crossing points between Fort William and Lochybridge hinder its effectiveness Additionally, residents of Fort William express concerns regarding the absence of a contingency plan or viable diversion routes in the event of restrictions caused by accidents or damage at Nevis Bridge.

The proposed A82 realignment in Fort William, which has been under consideration since the 1970s, aims to alleviate congestion and improve the flow of through traffic Additionally, the Caol Link Road has been suggested, but it faces significant deliverability challenges and could negatively affect residential neighborhoods near Kilmallie Road.

West Highland College has ten campuses around the region, with Fort William being the Headquarters Centre for science and technology being proposed near Police Scotland location

Longstanding aspiration to have an airstrip serving the area, and there has been a seaplane operation in the past These initiatives could provide opportunities for both business and tourism

A82 Partnership and a member of Fort

In person at Fort William Traffic Congestion group

Congestion in Fort William is a significant problem, frequently highlighted by complaints from local Chamber of Commerce members, hauliers, and employers This traffic issue not only affects the punctuality of buses but also severely impacts community transport services, including minibuses and taxis.

The current road infrastructure is inadequate, and establishing a direct link between An Aird and the A830 could reduce traffic on the A82 by 50% to 66% This improvement would enhance direct access to Caol, the new developments on Blar Mor, Corpach, and the West, benefiting all road users, including cyclists and pedestrians.

Focus Group with Fort William Residents

On February 28th, a focus group was conducted at the Ben Nevis Hotel in Fort William, involving eight local residents This established market research method aims to provide deeper insights into decision-making processes and perceptions Participants were selected by a professional recruiter to meet specific quotas established by the study team, ensuring a diverse representation in terms of age, gender, and transportation usage in the area.

The well-attended group discussion lasted for an hour and a half, with all participants actively engaged and passionate about the topic To encourage turnout and fairly compensate attendees for their time, each participant received a standard cash incentive of £40, a common practice in market research Key insights emerged from the session, highlighting the participants' enthusiasm and involvement in the conversation.

Residents of Fort William take great pride in their town and community, expressing high levels of satisfaction with their living experience Participants in a recent survey reported having lived in the area for varying lengths of time, ranging from just one year to as long as 35-40 years.

Many residents prefer to avoid the town during peak season due to heavy congestion, often opting instead for the newly opened out-of-town Retail Park when possible.

“They were saying I can’t wait for them to open {new out of town ALDI}, because I’ll not need to go into town.”

Local residents strategically decide when to shop, opting for times when the stores are less crowded or choosing alternative shopping locations to avoid busy periods.

Parking at out-of-town shopping centers is often at full capacity, and with new units being added, future congestion issues are likely to arise.

The parking situation is quite poor, with the car park for Marks & Spencer and Home Bargains currently full It seems that the owners may also possess the land across the road, which could potentially be developed to alleviate the issue However, with Aldi's recent entry into the area, finding adequate parking will be a challenge.

The newly constructed medical center, relocated outside the town and integrating existing practices, has raised concerns among local elderly residents Previously, they could easily walk to their GP, but now they face the challenge of navigating traffic congestion to access healthcare services, relying on public transport or taxis for their journeys.

The construction of a new health center benefits doctors, but it poses challenges for elderly patients who previously walked to their appointments Now, they must rely on public transport or taxis, which can lead to delays if traffic is congested, making it difficult for them to arrive on time for their medical visits.

The proposed construction of a hospital outside of Fort William is expected to create similar accessibility issues for the local community.

A teacher in the group highlighted that traffic congestion significantly impacts students' punctuality, as both staff and pupils are increasingly arriving late to school due to road issues.

 A problem at some of the key junctions can cause the whole town to come to a standstill

 There was a general concern in the group that more fatalities or major, standstill accidents would need to happen before the town or appropriate authorities would tackle congestion issues.

Placecheck Tool

Launched in mid-February 2018, the Placecheck tool for Fort William enables users to share feedback on three key themes: positive aspects, negative aspects, and areas for improvement Participants can comment on transport services, infrastructure, and general locations, using a user-friendly interface that allows for easy registration and submission of comments Additionally, contributors can specify their feedback by pinpointing exact locations on the map Once submitted, all comments and the map are publicly accessible, encouraging further engagement and discussion among users.

3939 Placecheck is an online mapping engagement tool developed by UDS Planning Ltd

A total of 121 comments were received; of these, 11 are categorised as ‘things I like’, 48 as ‘things I don’t like’ and 62 as ‘things we need to work on’

The analysis of comments revealed a diverse array of topics and themes, with many comments addressing multiple themes simultaneously By counting the references to specific themes, we identified the most frequently mentioned topics Below, we present the most common themes along with the frequency of their mentions in individual comments and illustrative examples of the responses received.

Congestion 28 The volume of traffic during the summer season is very high

The A82 serves as a crucial transportation route in north west Scotland, handling significant traffic volumes However, when this heavy traffic intersects with suburban congestion in Fort William, the road often becomes gridlocked, leading to severe delays.

The Nevis Bridge Roundabout is the major reason for congestion Southbound A82 traffic has to give way to non-trunk road traffic

The road is not fit for purpose and is heavily used by HGVs, causing frequent bottle necks

Congestion can prevent fire crews attending the fire station to deploy and respond

Too many vehicles do drop offs at the high school, causing considerable congestion

25 Improvements required to Black Parks path to prevent vehicles using this route as a shortcut

The new flood prevention scheme (at Caol) should encourage cycle/walking option to take traffic off the roads

The walking and cycling paths at Torlundy, Soldiers Bridge, and Black Parks are currently functional but would benefit from enhanced lighting and better surfaces Additionally, many have pointed out that the active travel routes from the town center are lacking in quality.

Overgrown vegetation should be better maintained

19 Of the 19 comments, 11 respondents commented on rail, 9 commented on bus and 3 mentioned ferry connections (note that these values do not total 19 as some respondents mentioned more than one mode)

Comments received relating lack of bus and rail connections within the study area and between study area and further afield (e.g Aviemore and Edinburgh)

Should Stagecoach withdraw services, Shiel Services are not timetabled to get into the town centre in time for work at 9am (alternatives either arrive too early or after 9am)

Commuter rail services into Fort William would be good

Safety 18 There are blind corners at various locations, with the threat of accidents occurring as a result

Vehicles using Black Parks path as a shortcut is dangerous for pedestrians walking to town

There is a large amount of HGV traffic travelling at high speed

The A82 should feature a ground-level crossing to improve accessibility between the station and the town center, eliminating the need for pedestrians to navigate the subway Additionally, other locations near schools have been identified as needing pedestrian crossings to enhance safety for children and families.

Lack of street lighting in places

17 The volume of traffic during the summer season has reached unmanageable levels and an additional route to filter traffic needs to be sought

To alleviate gridlock effectively, it is essential to differentiate between strategic and local traffic The most viable solution is to establish a dedicated link road from Fort William to Caol specifically for local traffic.

With the new site for the Belford Hospital, consideration should be given to having a road link between here and the new roundabout at the police station/new Belford site

An option must be found to bypass the Nevis Bridge Roundabout

12 Some roads are not fit for purpose, particularly for HGVs which can cause damage to road surfaces

Some roads are too narrow; particularly at Nevis Bridge Roundabout

HGVs 9 There is an enormous amount of HGV traffic travelling at high speed on this route, with a high chance of an accident involving children

A ban on HGVs using the A82 during peak traffic times during the summer should be considered to help reduce congestion

The road is not fit to carry HGVs

Modal Shift 8 Need to encourage use of railway for export of goods from smelter, instead of more lorries on road

We need to ensure that the new flood prevention scheme encourages cycle/walking options to again take traffic from our roads

The Canal Path from Banavie to Gairlochy offers an exceptional experience, providing a traffic-free route alongside the A82, complete with stunning views Expanding such facilities would greatly enhance outdoor accessibility and enjoyment.

Great start to the path in Fort William for those arriving on the Camusnagaul Ferry

The coastal path between Corpach and Caol is a great walk with tremendous views

Signage 4 Signage for visitors is poor and could be better positioned

Poor signage and a lack of knowledge about local parking restrictions regularly leads to parking tickets for behaviour that seems reasonable

There is a lack of signposting for cyclists on High Street, with confusing signs about restricted access times

Speeding 4 The solution to allow safe crossing is to reduce the speed of traffic at the

Inverlochy Roundabout should be raised as traffic travels at speed through the

A considerable proportion of traffic ignores the 30mph limit, particularly HGVs when the school warning signs aren’t in action

4 Due to the increasing traffic problems, and with the new site for the Belford

Hospital, consideration should be given to having a road link between Carr’s Corner and the new roundabout at the police station/new Belford site

With the addition of the roundabout at the smelter entrance this road should now be linked onto the roundabout

A direct connection from Caol to Fort William is essential to alleviate traffic on the A82 It is crucial for the community to move beyond being a town with only one access road in and out.

3 The area behind the shops, which runs parallel with the dual carriageway between the West End car park and the Morrisons roundabout looks run-down, unloved and uninviting

There are 6 lanes of road (Middle St plus dual carriageway) between the High Street and the loch side which should be one of Fort William’s best assets

Horrendous traffic in the summer does not give a good impression to visitors to the area, who may decide to keep going instead of stopping in town

3 More rapid charging sites needed Preference would be West End car park, but

Middle St car park, new Aldi car park and Lochaber High School would seem good places

The Aird Car Park is equipped to charge four electric vehicles simultaneously, featuring two fast and two rapid charging options; however, it currently offers only three designated parking spaces for EVs.

Need more rapid charging points in and around fort William as there is only one rapid charging point In the summer months in particular this has been in use

Parking 3 Free parking permit for local residents in some of car parks within town area encourages use of car to get into town rather than using public transport This leads to lot of single use passenger trips in/out of town resulting in increased traffic on road

Concerns with double yellow lines, particularly around the climbing centre

Visitors 3 Comments related to visitors, including limited availability for coaches to drop off tourists in the vicinity of High Street and a need for a circular/shuttle bus to the town’s most popular sites

Noise 3 Noise concerns, particularly around waterfront areas

Other 4 Comments included issues related to litter and comments on the beautiful scenery

Table 4-2 highlights key themes from Placecheck comments, with congestion emerging as the predominant concern, consistent with feedback from public drop-in sessions Other prevalent issues included safety for road users and pedestrians/cyclists, inadequate public transport connectivity, and the necessity for enhanced pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure.

Geographically, most comments relate to the Fort William Town Centre and Inverlochy areas, particularly around the rail/bus station and A82 North Road between Nevis Bridge Roundabout and Lochybridge Roundabout

Figure 4-2 Screenshots from Placecheck Fort William

Drop-in Engagement Session

A public drop in session was held on Thursday 8 th March between

On [insert date], Fort William Library hosted a public session from 1 PM to 7 PM, allowing community members to learn about a local transport study Attendees had the chance to share their insights on transport issues and opportunities in Fort William and the surrounding area The event attracted around 40 participants, highlighting community engagement in addressing transport challenges.

The event was promoted in advance using the following mechanisms:

 Poster prepared on event and shared with Fort William Traffic and Congestion Group members, Community Councils,

Lochaber Chamber of Commerce, Fort William Town Team and by project steering group social media streams

 Details of event included in Chamber of Commerce newsletter

 Hard copy posters sent to Library in advance to post in prominent locations

During the session, attendees highlighted similar issues related to their locations, as reflected in comments received on Placecheck It's important to note that public feedback varied based on respondents' residences For instance, individuals living in Inverlochy shared negative opinions regarding the A82 realignment option.

Congestion has increasingly become a significant issue in the town, especially during the summer months, with reports indicating that the congestion period now extends from Easter through September/October The A82, particularly between the Morrison’s roundabout and Lochybridge Roundabout, has been identified as the most affected area Many residents point to the Glen Nevis Roundabout and the adjacent Nevis Bridge as primary contributors to this ongoing congestion problem.

Vehicles heading south on the A82 must yield to those leaving the Glen Nevis junction, which experiences heavy traffic due to its proximity to a major car park for Ben Nevis and the extensive Glen Nevis camping site This issue intensifies during the summer months, leading to increased congestion Additionally, vehicles exiting the Nevis Centre junction contribute to traffic becoming stationary on both northbound and southbound lanes of the A82.

 The Nevis Bridge is narrow, particularly for HGVs and other large vehicles Concerns related to capacity issues on the bridge were also discussed

More detail on this session, as well as full Placecheck comments and focus group discussion points is provided in Appendix C.

Stakeholder Workshop

A stakeholder workshop was held on Thursday 3 rd May 2018 in Fort William with three key aims:

 To identify any problems which had not been previously identified as part of the study;

 To identify which themes Transport Planning Objectives (TPOs) should be influenced by; and

 To generate a long list of potential options / solutions

The workshop played a crucial role in the engagement process, allowing stakeholders to openly discuss key study elements such as issues, TPOs, and potential solutions This collaborative environment, combined with prior extensive engagement efforts like public sessions, the online Placecheck tool, and business interviews, ensured that stakeholder input was effectively captured as the study advanced For a comprehensive summary of the workshop, please refer to Appendix D, with an overview provided below.

The recent engagement activities highlighted several existing issues, alongside new concerns such as inadequate active travel connections in certain areas like North Road Retail Park and A830, inconsistencies in pricing for bike travel on Camusnagaul and Corran ferries, the resilience of the Banavie swing bridge, and challenges posed by abnormal loads on the road network, particularly from wind turbines These identified problems have been instrumental in recognizing Transport Planning Objectives (TPOs) and potential solutions, which are thoroughly discussed in Chapter 5, with further details provided in Chapters 6 and 7.

Key themes identified in the TPO include alleviating congestion, promoting active travel, addressing environmental concerns, and facilitating modal shift For a comprehensive overview of these themes, refer to section 1.1, and for further details on the development of TPOs, consult Chapter 6.

At the workshop, a comprehensive list of options was created to address the identified problems and TPO themes, considering all modes of transport This included road-based solutions, Park & Ride/Choose site initiatives, enhancements to active travel infrastructure, and improvements to public transport The options generated during the workshop, along with those from other engagement channels, have contributed to the extensive list of options detailed in Chapter 7.

Summary of issues emerging from engagement process

The engagement process revealed several key issues, with congestion being a primary concern among residents, community councils, businesses, and emergency services Additional concerns included a declining bus service, perceptions of unsafe walking and cycling infrastructure, and the severance effects caused by the A82 and A830 in the study area There is also a growing worry that the current transport network will be inadequate to support future growth in Fort William.

Figure 4-3 Summary of engagement input

Problems, Opportunities, Issues and Constraints

Introduction

The findings from the engagement stage, document review, and preparation of transport, development, and socio-economic baselines have identified key issues and opportunities within the Study Area This section discusses the problems and prospects revealed through the Fort William Strategic Transport Study, providing a foundation for future developments.

This study includes an assessment of issues and constraints within the Study Area, following STAG guidance The identified issues highlight uncertainties that could impact the necessity and characteristics of transport investments, while constraints refer to factors that decision-makers may have limited ability to influence.

Identifying Problems and Opportunities – STAG Guidance

Recapping the STAG guidance is essential for understanding the identification of problems and opportunities within the STAG process, ensuring both compliance and transparency in the approach.

Problems

The Pre-Appraisal stage focuses on determining whether there is a solid, evidence-based rationale for investing in the transport network It is crucial to evaluate the evidence surrounding existing issues and to identify their underlying causes According to STAG guidance, these problems may be both real and perceived.

(reported by people who live, work and do business in the area) and observed where quantifiable or direct evidence exists

Problems have been gathered throughout the engagement, document and data analysis tasks in this study

Appendix E includes a comprehensive list of issues identified throughout the process, detailing their origins and supporting evidence These challenges have been validated through discussions with stakeholders during the workshop mentioned in Section 4 Furthermore, the table incorporates additional problems and evidence that emerged from that workshop.

This section aims to present a narrative on the problems reported in relation to the transport network

The Fort William Strategic Transport Study highlights significant challenges related to infrastructure and multi-modal services within the area It outlines the primary issues identified, explores their potential root causes, and discusses both local and strategic implications for transportation development.

Finally, a visual representation of Fort William transport issues as they currently stand is presented.

Journey time variability and seasonal congestion

In a recent study involving stakeholders and the public, seasonal traffic congestion emerged as a prevalent concern in Fort William Traffic congestion is a complex issue, influenced by individual experiences and perceptions Consequently, this study primarily emphasizes journey time variability as a key indicator of congestion.

“It is important to recognise that actual and perceived problems or opportunities within the transport system must be the rationale for a STAG study

User , operator, public, and political perceptions of issues or opportunities within the transport system are as crucial as data-driven insights, highlighting the importance of qualitative assessments alongside quantitative analysis.

Analyzing transport system issues requires a focus on underlying causes and their impacts, rather than just surface-level symptoms During the Pre-Appraisal phase, it is crucial to identify opportunities for enhancing both the transport system and its usage Practitioners must conduct a thorough data analysis to establish a strong evidence base before advancing to a more detailed appraisal.

Residents and workers in Fort William commonly identify the issue as "congestion," highlighting the importance of acknowledging their perception and expression of the problem.

Fort William has long faced seasonal congestion challenges, prompting the formation of the Fort William Congestion Group and the development of a traffic model by Transport Scotland to explore potential solutions Recent enhancements to the road network include the significant upgrade of the A82/Earl of Inverness junction, where traffic signals were replaced with a mini-roundabout, aiming to improve traffic flow and reduce delays.

Ongoing improvements at the Glen Nevis bridge junction aim to enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion on the A82, indicating that junction configurations may be contributing to traffic issues in the area While incremental upgrades are being implemented, it remains challenging to determine their overall impact on travel time consistency until the work is completed and comprehensive monitoring is conducted.

Transport Scotland's Scottish Transport Statistics indicate a significant seasonal increase in traffic volumes in the Study Area, outpacing the overall Highland region, with visitor numbers also on the rise A 2017 roadside interview survey on the A82 south of Fort William revealed that over 40% of drivers were on holiday Additionally, INRIX travel data and specialized surveys from the same year highlight the impact of these elevated traffic volumes on travel times and their variability The analysis confirms local perceptions that southbound journeys are generally slower and exhibit greater variability compared to northbound trips.

The study has identified the problems these traffic patterns and their impact on travel times present:

Emergency Services in Fort William are facing challenges due to traffic congestion, which hampers staff from reaching work and delays emergency vehicles at the critical Belford junction on the A82 road network A teacher participating in a focus group for this research highlighted that this congestion also affects the ability of both staff and students to get to school.

Residents and workers in the area express concerns that the current transport network may not support the anticipated growth associated with the Liberty Smelter proposals As nearby settlements like Spean Bridge are expected to grow, Fort William's role as a regional economic center becomes increasingly significant However, if travel times remain inconsistent and lengthy, it could hinder the development of both Fort William and its surrounding areas, leading to decreased appeal for living, working, and investing in the region.

The study area suffers from a significant lack of alternative routes, resulting in potential gridlock on the A82 through Fort William whenever delays occur As noted by multiple participants during the engagement phase of this study, Fort William is characterized by having "one route in and one route out."

Bus operators have expressed concerns about how congestion affects their services, noting that they often need to deploy extra vehicles during peak times to stay on schedule.

During road closures, companies transporting goods often opt to ground their vehicles instead of attempting diversions, as some vehicles are capable of making up for lost time.

6 loads a day are only making 4, leading to less efficient and more expensive operations

The Glen Nevis and Inverlochy junctions are significant congestion sources, with reports indicating southbound traffic on the A82 queuing as far north as Torlundy Traffic data from a Transport Scotland model reveals that the highest traffic flows occur between the A82/A830 junction and Belford junction To address these issues, Transport Scotland has recently implemented online improvements at the Glen Nevis junction to enhance traffic flow Additionally, INRIX data shows considerable variability in travel times from the A82 to the A830/A82 junction in the northern part of town.

Concerns have been raised about increased traffic due to new developments like the retail park and the relocation of core services to Blar Mhor While it remains uncertain whether these projects are generating additional trips or merely redistributing existing ones, there is apprehension that traffic issues could escalate in the future Participants in the focus group noted that some residents avoid visiting Fort William due to congestion fears, which could negatively affect the town centre's vitality in the long run.

Road Network Resilience

The road network in the Study Area serves both local and strategic traffic, as shown by the results of the Road Safety Inspections (RSIs) detailed in Section 3 The A82, being the only north-south road link through Fort William, makes the network particularly vulnerable to disruptions caused by road closures Section 3 also includes maps that depict the official diversion routes provided by Bear Scotland, the trunk road operating company.

In the Study Area, road closures result in significant diversion routes, with A830 diversions taking a minimum of 1 hour and A82 diversions exceeding 2 hours.

Data from BEAR Scotland Ltd indicates that road closures are infrequent and vary in frequency, with eight closures recorded in 2016—primarily due to Road Traffic Collisions—and three in 2017 The duration of these closures can range from 45 minutes to an extended 14 hours for a single incident on the A82 in 2018 Although these closures are rare, they result in considerable disruption, as highlighted during the engagement process.

Analysis of ATC data indicates that traffic volumes tend to increase on weekends, public holidays, and during significant events like the Mountain Bike World Cup in early June However, it remains unclear whether these heightened traffic levels contribute to journey time variability For large-scale events, Shuttle Bus services and Park and Ride options are available Locals report that unexpected incidents, such as road traffic collisions, canal swing bridge issues at Banavie, and abnormal loads, are more likely to cause gridlock, exacerbated by a lack of diversionary routes.

Public transport network – poor bus accessibility and declining services

The UK bus industry is experiencing a significant decline in passenger numbers, with Stagecoach ceasing operations in the area in 2018 Infrequent bus services in the Study Area may deter potential riders and exacerbate geographic isolation, especially for residents in outlying settlements An analysis of bus accessibility indicates that Fort William has poorer access compared to Oban, although it is similar to other comparable regions Furthermore, areas northwest and far south of Fort William rank lowest in terms of access to essential services via public transport and private vehicles, with a higher percentage of households lacking car access compared to the Highland-wide average.

A local bus operator is pushing for enhancements to the bus station, aiming for improved waiting facilities for passengers While the current station provides real-time information, the shared bus stances can create confusion Additionally, the waiting area lacks adequate protection from cold weather, despite its proximity to the rail station and taxi ranks, which presents a chance for better transport integration However, the route from the bus and rail station to the town center is unwelcoming, requiring pedestrians to navigate a challenging underpass.

A local bus operator has commented that innovative thinking is required to make the bus network commercially viable in this area, with a better link to development opportunities.

Public transport network – low use of rail for local journeys and limited Central Belt

The rail service timetable in the Study Area restricts commuting options, with only one weekday train available for local journeys This service departs from Corpach at 07:13 and Banavie at 07:17, arriving in Fort William at 07:25 For return trips, the sole evening train leaves Fort William at 16:19, stopping at Banavie at 16:25 and Corpach at 16:30.

The current scheduling and placement of rail stops limit its effectiveness for both commuting and school travel According to census data, rail transportation constitutes only 0.75% of work journeys in the Study Area, significantly below the Highland average and the national average of 4.17%.

The Central Belt rail connections have been criticized for their limitations, particularly the significant gap in afternoon service from Fort William to Glasgow This gap restricts full-day trips to Fort William from the Central Belt, allowing only five hours for visitors to explore the town In response to these issues, ScotRail is refurbishing the West Highland Line rolling stock to improve current shortcomings, such as inadequate air conditioning and limited toilet facilities.

ScotRail data indicates that demand for rail travel on the West Highland Line is on the rise, yet it remains the most seasonal rail route in Scotland This seasonality presents challenges in justifying the business case for year-round investments, such as additional rail services, due to the associated costs.

Constraints on active travel

Community engagement revealed a strong desire for increased walking and cycling for daily commutes However, the alignment of the A82 creates a barrier between the Town Centre, rail, and bus stations, as well as the waterfront, which was a recurring concern Locals emphasized the need for improved connections in the cycle network, particularly between Caol and Fort William town centre.

A significant lack of awareness regarding active travel facilities affects both visitors and locals, primarily due to insufficient signage For instance, the off-road shared-use path east of the A82, which connects to Torlundy, was specifically mentioned during discussions This lack of awareness, along with gaps in connectivity to the Town Centre, may deter people from choosing cycling as a viable travel option.

National Cycle Network Route 78 requires users to make two ferry crossings at Corran and Camusnagaul, which undermines the '5 c's' design principles for active travel: convivial, convenient, connected, conspicuous, and comfortable The route's inconvenience and indirectness are exacerbated by the limited ferry services operating from Camusnagaul only Monday to Saturday, making cycling a less appealing choice for travelers.

Summary: State of the Town – Transport problems

Congestion remains a significant issue for residents and workers in Fort William, with specific junctions identified as key contributing factors by Transport Scotland High seasonal traffic volumes are linked to increased travel time variability, although it is uncertain whether events directly influence this variability While incidents can severely disrupt traffic when they occur, they are infrequent according to official data The challenges are exacerbated by the limited diversionary routes available in the area, making it difficult to manage the impacts of these incidents effectively.

Fort William's future growth necessitates intervention due to various contributing factors, including an underperforming active travel and public transport network that fails to facilitate sustainable travel journeys effectively.

Opportunities

The following table sets out opportunities for improvement to the transport system and the way it is used in Fort William

Opportunity Description Source Implications for FW Strategic Transport Study

High level of engagement with transport and place issues in the town, as evidenced by comparatively high level of participation in this strategic transport study (Placecheck,

Community Councils, drop-in session)

This study and high level of participation by community

There is a strong interest in addressing transport-related issues within the community, which could result in significant support for various solutions when these challenges are approached in a practical manner.

A dialogue has started at policy level on transport improvements needed in the town suggesting political will which is important for change

Lochaber Area Committee stated priorities for transport infrastructure

Fort William Active Travel Audit/

Masterplan has a body of work highlighting gaps in the active travel network and potential improvements, which can be built upon further

Highland Council is at a crucial stage in the planning process to enhance and identify necessary transport improvements, as outlined in Transport Background Paper 40 Existing studies have already assessed the Active Travel needs within the town.

Active travel infrastructure continues to be invested in, with recent improvement to

HITRANS Further improvements to Soldiers

Bridge planned in 2019 through funding support from Liberty

Commitment to improving active travel infrastructure has been demonstrated, and opportunities to continue this in coming years Opportunity to secure developer contributions as town continues to grow

Liberty Smelter proposals and associated jobs and housing

Planning documents and stakeholder interviews

The

High level of primary school cycling to school as evidenced by Hands Up Surveys results

Hands up Survey results for Fort William schools

The growing enthusiasm for cycling to school highlights its broader advantages for the community, indicating a strong local support for improved cycling infrastructure This enthusiasm presents an opportunity for future investments in cycling networks that can further enhance community engagement and accessibility.

A82 short-term junction improvement (Nevis junction)

Transport Scotland and Fort William Traffic

May see some improvement in A82 during seasonal months in terms of journey time and queuing though impact may not be

40 http://consult.highland.gov.uk/portal/westplanpp?tab=files

Opportunity Description Source Implications for FW Strategic Transport Study by Transport Scotland Congestion Group known until after-scheme monitoring done by Transport

Scotland Short-term improvement however

Census Travel to Work data suggests potential for modal shift for shorter journeys

Accessibility mapping suggests most of area is within 30 minute cycling threshold

Through improved investment in public transport and active travel infrastructure, there is potential for positive modal shift for some key, short journeys

Potential for Scottish Canals to act as partner in attracting funding from Sustrans for cycling and walking improvements

Telford Marina might eventually give potential for a water taxi business between Corpach &

Scottish Canals is exploring options for improving disabled access at the lock gate in Corpach, aiming to facilitate easier crossings for wheelchair users This initiative seeks to connect the villages of Corpach and Caol, ultimately linking them to Fort William.

Development of the marina might give potential for a water taxi business between Corpach and Fort William

Scottish Canals website and initial engagement

May increase profile of Caledonian Canal further in Fort William and lead to increase in visitor numbers

May enhance walking and cycling connections for both visitors and local residents, and enhance access for those with mobility difficulties

May lead to innovative water-based transport solutions

If progressed, such a service would offer another modal choice for travel between Corpach and Fort William

Opportunities to improve walking and cycling access to the canal, and by those with mobility difficulties

West Highlands and Islands Proposed LDP (FW19)

Canal infrastructure can often serve both functional and leisure trips

Water-based recreational and tourism potential which could support transport investment in supporting services / infrastructure

West Highlands and Islands Proposed LDP (FW22)

Enhanced marine connection facilities including promenade, marina/harbour, seaplane and cruise liner facilities

It is noted that there were plans for Fort William Waterfront as part of an £80 million project which would have included a new supermarket, offices and a residential development However, in

2010 plans were withdrawn owing to the global economic situation at the time

An engineering study to examine the potential for the

Opportunity Description Source Implications for FW Strategic Transport Study

Growth in cruise ships in area Chamber of

The proposed development of a deep-water port at Corpach aims to enhance commerce by facilitating the handling of inbound raw materials such as Alumina and LNG, while also enabling the transit of other bulk goods Additionally, the port would support the export of manufactured products from Lochaber to southern markets If an engineering study confirms the feasibility and affordability of this project, a comprehensive master planning exercise for the Corpach industrial area will be necessary.

The increasing demand for local tour operators and collective travel options, particularly among cruise ship passengers who typically do not need private vehicles, highlights the necessity for improved coach access facilities to Loch Linnhe and the installation of pontoons.

Corpach Masterplanning pre- feasibility exercise underway in

The Corpach area presents a unique opportunity to assess the community's needs regarding services and infrastructure across various policy sectors This evaluation could lead to the development of transport proposals aimed at enhancing accessibility through sustainable methods.

Higher percentage of 0-15 year olds in comparison to Scotland wide figures

Socio-economic baseline Slightly younger population, potential for behaviour change?

Outdoor Capital branding, enhanced tourism profile from

Scenic Rail Journey in UK

Tourism figures, engagement, online research, stakeholder interviews

The increasing popularity of rail travel among visitors is evident; however, the highly seasonal nature of this demand poses challenges in justifying year-round investments in new rolling stock and services.

Other places in Scotland with growing demand from camper vans – Loch Lomond zones for camper vans, to provide certainty of service provision and reduce ad-hoc pressure

Example of localised measure to respond to specific issues around vehicle-based tourism which could be considered for the Study Area

Opportunity to make the case for national investment in transport network in Fort William

Plans include improved walking and cycling infrastructure as part of scheme which will improve active travel opportunities in the Study Area

Appetite for more rail-based and sea-based freight and ongoing discussions within the industry

Stakeholder interviews (Ferguson and Timber Transport Forum) Reduce pressure on strategic road network from freight

41 http://www.westhighlandline.org.uk/index.php/news

Opportunity Description Source Implications for FW Strategic Transport Study

Transport Scotland consultation on ways to empower local authorities with greater options to improve bus services in their area, in partnership with operators Published Transport

(Scotland) Bill 2018 https://www.transport.g ov.scot/consultation/loc al-bus-services-in- scotland-improving-the- framework-for-delivery/

Potential for improved partnerships with local bus operators and improved bus provision in the Study Area

ScotRail investment in rolling stock on West Highland Line

In 2018, refurbished Class 156 trains will be introduced on the West Highland Line, featuring additional luggage racks to accommodate bicycles and outdoor sports equipment This initiative aligns with the Programme for Government's commitment to enhance rural transport options ScotRail is currently formulating proposals for Transport Scotland's review, aiming to promote more sustainable travel for visitors to the region, reducing reliance on car travel.

SMART and integrated ticketing is in place e.g through the Spirit of Scotland ticket

Efforts are underway to enhance the Scenic Trains experience on tourism-related rail routes throughout Scotland, including the West Highland Line (WHL) This initiative aims to improve passenger services by providing better information, dedicated staff support, and upgraded catering options.

Caledonian Sleeper rolling stock also being revamped to higher quality accommodation

Changes to short and long-stay parking charges across all off- street car parking in the

In 2018, enhanced demand management strategies emerged, promoting the adoption of more sustainable transportation options for shorter trips Effective parking management plays a crucial role in urban travel demand management, facilitating a shift towards more environmentally friendly modes of transport.

Potential development of a whitewater course at the exit of the aluminium smelter tailrace in Fort William

Fort William Tailrace Development Group e- mail correspondence and West Highlands and Islands Proposed LDP (FW20)

The FW20 Smelter Tailrace site is located in the West Highland and Islands Proposed Local Development Plan (LDP) area This project is anticipated to be near the safeguarded route designated for the A82 realignment project outlined in the Proposed LDP.

The Tailrace project is set to enhance recreational and tourism opportunities at Black Park, the Great Glen Way, Old Inverlochy Castle, and BA Club Fields Additionally, there are plans to explore the establishment of a 'Pump Track' bike facility in this area or its vicinity.

The Highland Council is providing Fort William staff with access to a car club for business travel, which is positive for building a sustainable travel culture in the study area

Highland Council and E Car Club and

The Council has recently reviewed its grey fleet, where staff and Members use personal vehicles for service delivery, and found that adopting a car club model could effectively reduce costs and organizational risk A pilot program for the car club model is set to launch in 2018 at key locations within the Council's estate, including the new Charles Kennedy Building, a multi-department service center in Fort William This initiative aims to replace expensive grey fleet and car hire trips by introducing car club vehicles.

42 https://www.highland.gov.uk/news/article/11084/car_clubs_help_the_highland_council_drive_ahead

Issues and Constraints – STAG Guidance

To ensure compliance with STAG guidance, and for the purposes of transparency, an excerpt from STAG on the purpose of identifying issues and constraints is shown below

This study identifies several issues and uncertainties, which overlap with the problems and opportunities discussed in Section 4, emphasizing the iterative nature of the STAG process.

The Liberty proposals raise concerns about the potential effects on local jobs and housing in relation to the transport network, with current forecasts indicating that the direct impacts from the development may be minimal Additionally, there remains uncertainty regarding the exact location and implications of new housing developments in Fort William, despite the development plan outlining the anticipated scale of these units.

Recent developments in the town are raising concerns about the cumulative impact on local services, potentially shifting the center of gravity away from the town center.

In a STAG-led study, it is essential to analyze relevant issues and constraints alongside problems and opportunities, ensuring that these elements are understood within a broader context This comprehensive approach enhances the identification process, allowing for a more effective evaluation of challenges and potential solutions.

In research, 'issues' refer to uncertainties that cannot be fully resolved but must be acknowledged When faced with these uncertainties, it is essential to create options that are either resilient to various potential outcomes or adaptable to changing conditions.

 Uncertainty at the time of the study whether a major road or rail link will be built that will affect the study area;

 The impact of a major new land-use development has yet to become clear; and

 A study for a neighbouring area may lead to a proposal that results in significant changes to through traffic passing across a study area

Practitioners should account for, or if possible neutralise, such Issues through liaison with neighbouring authorities, government departments and agencies, and transport operators

Constraints represent the bounds within which a study is being undertaken These may include but are not limited to:

 The statutory powers of an authority to promote change;

 The funding levels that can realistically be obtained;

 Scottish, UK or EU legislation; and

 Scottish or UK fiscal policy

Similarly, constraints on the shape of a particular option could be affected by:

 Sensitive areas of ecological or landscape or heritage importance;

 Rivers or railway lines which are expensive to bridge;

 Rough terrain making infrastructure works expensive; and

 Unusual existing patterns of development such as industry and commerce spread over wide areas outside the traditional urban centre

Recognizing key issues early on can help identify more acceptable solutions, rather than overlooking them Although it's important for a study to demonstrate how changes in constraints can enhance a transport option's development or success, any proposed option should not rely on altering these constraints unless the promoting organization has the authority to implement such changes.

Police HQ the new hospital, Lochaber High School, Liberty and nearby retail development Impacts on travel demand (and on demand to travel to town centre)

 Uncertainty over residual issues remaining after any short-term interventions by Transport Scotland on the A82 at Nevis junction in 2018 / 19

 Uncertainty of marine / port / harbour proposals being developed and any proposals to emerge from recently initiated Marine Study (HIE and local industry partners)

The evolving landscape of tourism in the region is marked by uncertainty, particularly concerning the implications of changes to the West Highland Line rolling stock, potential timetable adjustments by ScotRail, and the rising popularity of touring-based tourism, such as the increasing number of campervans and visitors attracted by the North Coast 500 route.

Concerns regarding congestion in Fort William may be impacting the local economy and visitor perceptions Focus group participants indicated they are avoiding the town center due to traffic issues, opting instead for outer retail centers Additionally, stakeholders expressed worries that delays could lead coaches and visitors to bypass Fort William rather than stop as intended.

As per the criteria within STAG, constraints in this study include the following:

Transport studies must take into account the potential direct and indirect impacts on nationally significant assets identified in collaboration with Historic Environment Scotland Key sites of concern include the Caledonian Canal and Inverlochy Castle, which require careful consideration regarding their preservation and setting.

The Ben Nevis and Glen Coe National Scenic Area (NSA) is situated near the A82, with Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) emphasizing the importance of maintaining visual amenity Additionally, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is located at Achintore, uphill from the A82 Given that the Ben Nevis Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and SSSI are within 1 km of the A82, it is crucial to consider their sensitivity Enhancing traffic flow could potentially mitigate air pollution impacts on these environmentally significant sites.

Significant portions of the study area are identified as flood-prone according to SEPA flood mapping In response, a proposed Flood Management scheme aims to enhance the active travel infrastructure, presenting a valuable opportunity for improvement.

─ Geography of the study area, constrained by mountains and water and shape of settlements along the coast, means that alternative road provision will always be constrained to a degree

The A82, a key trunk road managed by Transport Scotland, faces competition for investment alongside other trunk roads and significant transport initiatives throughout the country The upcoming STPR review presents a valuable opportunity to evaluate and prioritize funding for transport projects across Scotland.

─ There are also local authority budget constraints within The Highland Council

The tourism industry's growth presents both opportunities and challenges for the study area, necessitating future accommodation for car-based visitor access while promoting sustainable transport options As a key stopover for travelers heading to Skye, which has experienced a surge in visitors, the study area also attracts significant traffic due to major local events Effective management of transport impacts is essential to ensure these events continue without concerns over congestion or accessibility deterring future participation.

43 Caol and Lochyside Flood Protection Scheme – public exhibition material online

Summary: Fort William opportunities

In 2018, the Highland Council created a graphic outlining key development opportunities and assets in Fort William, projecting changes and infrastructure needs through 2040 This initiative aims to strategically plan for the town's growth and transformation over the next two decades.

Transport Planning Objectives

Introduction

The transport appraisal process is driven by evidence and objectivity, establishing clear objectives that address specific, evidence-based issues These objectives outline the goals for future interventions and investments, guiding the development and evaluation of potential solutions to assess their relative performance effectively.

This section of the report sets out the approach taken to the development of objectives in this study, referred to in STAG guidance as Transport Planning Objectives.

The Setting of Transport Planning Objectives

Transport Planning Objectives (TPOs) are established during the Pre-Appraisal phase to effectively address evidence-based issues Throughout the study, various options will be evaluated against these TPOs The STAG guidance provides comprehensive insights into the significance and formulation of TPOs, which this study has duly considered Ultimately, TPOs are essential for ensuring a structured approach to transport planning.

 Confirm the outcomes sought by the study (as opposed to the activities required to achieve them);

 Serve as a basis for directing and guiding the entire study process;

 Be based on a comprehensive exploration and understanding of the root causes of problems and consequences of opportunities;

 Should be informed by existing and relevant material such as previous consultations or existing objectives;

 Should be informed by the Scottish Government’s Purpose and National Outcomes, and relevant established policy directives;

 Provide clarity in the appraisal of transport options, and facilitate objective-led, informed outcomes; and

 Be SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable/Attainable, Realistic and Timed) although they do not need to be entirely SMART at the Pre-Appraisal stage.

Analysis of Relevant and Existing Policy Directives and Objectives

Building on the policy document analysis from Chapter 2, this report further examines relevant strategy documents to align the Transport Planning Objectives (TPOs) for the Fort William Strategic Transport Study with national, regional, and local objectives This approach ensures consistency in outcomes, as illustrated in Figures 6-1 and 6-2.

44 https://www.transport.gov.scot/publication/stag-technical-database/section-3/

• Environment (maximising the quality of the built and natural environment for enjoyment by all);

• Safety (reducing the risk and incidence of accidents and improving the security of all transport users);

• Economy (saving people's and business's time and money and facilitating desired economic development);

• Integration (fitting the transport network together and ensuring a rational relationship between transport, land-use and wider policy);

• Accessibility (providing everyone, not just users but also non-users, with the means to travel to opportunities of all kinds).

• 1 We live in a Scotland that is the most attractive place for doing business in Europe;

• 2 We realise our full economic potential with more and better employment opportunities for our people;

• 3 We are better educated, more skilled and more successful, renowned for our research and innovation;

• 4 Our young people are successful learners, confident individuals, effective contributors and responsible citizens;

• 5 Our children have the best start in life and are ready to succeed;

• 6 We live longer, healthier lives;

• 7 We have tackled the significant inequalities in Scottish society;

• 8 We have improved the life chances for children, young people and families at risk;

• 9 We live our lives safe from crime, disorder and danger;

• 10 We live in well-designed, sustainable places where we are able to access the amenities and services we need;

• 11 We have strong, resilient and supportive communities where people take responsibility for their own actions and how they affect others;

• 12 We value and enjoy our built and natural environment and protect it and enhance it for future generations;

• 13 We take pride in a strong, fair and inclusive national identity;

• 14 We reduce the local and global environmental impact of our consumption and production; and

• 15 Our public services are high quality, continually improving, efficient and responsive to local people's needs.

To enhance economic growth, social inclusion, and safety, it is essential to improve journey times and connections in transportation Addressing congestion and fostering better integration will significantly impact our overarching objectives for a more efficient and connected transport system.

• Reduce emissions, to tackle the issues of climate change, air quality and health improvement which impact on our high level objective for protecting the environment and improving health; and

• Improve quality, accessibility and affordability, to give people a choice of public transport, where availability means better quality transport services, value for money and a realistic alternative to the car.

National Transport Strategy (under review)

• Investing in people, infrastructure and assets.

• To foster a culture of innovation.

• To enable Scotland to take advantage of international opportunities.

Figure 6-2 Regional and Local Objectives

To foster sustainable economic growth, it is essential to establish a robust transport network that accommodates the diverse conditions of urban and rural areas Special attention must be given to the unique challenges posed by remoteness, particularly for Highland communities traveling to other parts of the UK.

• Social Inclusion: Facilitate travel to enable economic/social involvement and improve access/travel choices to essential services for those without access to a private car;

• Environment: Manage/reduce the impacts of transport on the natural and built environment;

• Health: Increase levels of cycling and walking to promote health improvement and modal shift;

• Road Safety: Continue to improve road safety, addressing locations where road accidents are above average levels;

• Personal Safety: Address issues of perceived safety and personal security particularly where they are a barrier to walking, cycling and public transport;

• Policy Integration: Identify policy overlap across Council services, and with other public bodies (e.g NHS), maximise benefits and minimise contradiction;

• Investment Integration: Identify benefits and opportunities of combined transport procurement for all Council services; and

• Traffic Reduction: Where appropriate consider targets for reducing traffic, although noting the variation in conditions and requirements between rural and urban areas

Highland Action Plan for Economic

• To stimulate and support indigenous business growth

• To help maximise the impacts of the UHI and attract national and international research funding into the area

• To ensure that the workforce, sector by sector, has the skills to enable the region and its businesses to capitalise on opportunities

• To address the growing problem of youth unemployment, and to attract people back to help fill new job opportunities

• To focus on job creation that will help raise the region’s relatively low average earnings in the private sector

• Whilst creating jobs in the short term to compensate for public sector cuts and maintain the region’s growth momentum.

• Delivering connectivity across the region which enables sustainable economic growth

• Reduction of barriers to participation, including in employment.

• Reduction of journey times and improved journey time reliability and resilience

Involvement of Stakeholders in the Objectives Setting Process

During the stakeholder workshop on May 3rd in Fort William, participants contributed to the development of the TPOs by generating a list of key themes These themes will play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of the TPOs, with a summary of the most significant themes outlined below.

 Alleviate congestion and the impacts of congestion throughout the year particularly economic and social impact

 Active travel and integrated network

 Resilient and future proofed network for all users (including ageing pop)

 Modal shift to sustainable transport for people and goods

 Reduce the environmental impact of transport & making Fort William an attractive and sustainable to visit and live in

 Smarter management of visitor demand

 Smarter management of freight travel demand

 Public transport network accessible, affordable for all (& information)

Draft Transport Planning Objectives

Draft TPOs have been developed for the study based on the outcomes of the tasks outlined in previous chapters and as noted above, have been influenced by:

 The themes generated by stakeholders at the workshop which are directly in response to identified problems

 Existing policy directives of relevance at a national, regional and local level

It should be noted these are draft TPOs at this Pre-Appraisal stage, and should be sense-checked through stakeholder consultation in any future Part 1 / Initial Appraisal

To develop a transport network that mitigates the economic and social effects of congestion, especially regarding journey time variability, it is essential to cater to both local and strategic transport users while also supporting future growth in the Lochaber region.

This objective specifically addresses the problems of:

 The perceived and observed impacts of journey time variability in the Study Area

 The concerns that congestion / journey time variability is preventing Emergency Services and bus services from operating properly, and affecting people getting to school and work

 The concerns that journey time variability is leading to lost time for hauliers and deliveries

Concerns about rising congestion levels may discourage both visitors and locals from frequenting the area, highlighting the need for effective measures to maintain accessibility It is essential to address these issues to ensure the local economy remains vibrant and continues to flourish in the future.

To ensure the transport network is resilient in the event of incidents and road closures:

This objective specifically addresses the problems of:

Stakeholders recognize that incidents on the road network can lead to significant journey time delays, hindering the efficiency of essential social and emergency services.

 The limited nature of the road network in Fort William in terms of one primary road network running through the area with limited diversionary routes

To deliver a health-promoting, sustainable and fair transport network that promotes equal access to opportunity:

This objective specifically addresses the problems of:

In Fort William, it is essential to address the needs of households without car access to ensure that the town's growth is inclusive and benefits all residents.

 The desire by many to be able to walk and cycle for more local journeys and Census evidence on the proportion of relatively short journeys for work and education

 The severance caused by the A82 and A830 throughout the study area, and difficulties imposed by this road network on active travel connections

 Local concerns over safe and appropriate active travel infrastructure

 The need to improve the bus and local rail offer in Fort William to support modal shift to public transport

To achieve smarter, more reliable and sustainable movement of goods to, from and through the area:

This objective specifically addresses the problems of:

 The desire by some industry sectors and employers to move freight away from road to offer greater resilience

 The proportion of HGVs on the road network in the Study Area (though data is variable on this)

 Improved efficiency of road-based freight movements where road is the only option

To achieve smarter management of travel demand to reduce seasonal impacts on the transport network:

This objective specifically addresses the problems of:

 Observed longer journey times during seasonal peaks (INRIX data) and resulting impacts on wider community as reported during engagement for this study

A significant number of vehicle travelers on the A82 near Fort William are visitors, according to RSI data There is a pressing need to promote alternative modes of transportation, such as rail, bus, or even water-based travel, to encourage more sustainable tourism in the area.

Appendix E provides a comprehensive cross-reference between the detailed list of issues identified in this study and the proposed objectives This alignment serves as a valuable verification tool, ensuring that the objectives effectively address the evidence-based problems identified.

Draft Transport Planning Objectives: Indicators

In the STAG process, there will be an opportunity to refine draft objectives, but it is crucial to ensure that these objectives are measurable for effective progress monitoring The accompanying table presents various indicators and data sources that can assess changes and evaluate the long-term impact of investments stemming from this study.

Draft TPO Indicator Baseline dataset Future monitoring

To develop a transportation network that mitigates the economic and social effects of congestion, especially regarding journey time variability, it is essential to cater to both local and strategic transport users while also planning for future growth.

Traffic volumes in study area

Baseline ANPR survey data 2017 (Transport Scotland)

INRIX is an ongoing data source held by Transport Scotland

ANPR would have to be repeated (and can be costly)

The ongoing data source for ATCs highlights that the previous Scottish Government National Performance Framework indicator for congestion relied on the Scottish Household Survey Travel Diary However, the sample size of the SHS data was inadequate for the specific study area.

To ensure the transport network is resilient in the event of incidents and road closures:

A82 (through study area) closure time from incidents

Diversionary distance for study area road closures

No available baseline found though could be collated by BEAR and Police Scotland BEAR information on length of diversion routes

Set up robust monitoring regime for this between agencies in 2018

Compare diversionary route distances each year

To deliver a health- promoting, sustainable and fair transport network that promotes equal access to opportunity:

Modal share for journey to work

Modal share for journey to school

Accessibility of bus services using SABI analysis

Travel plan data for Liberty (staff travel)

Hands Up Survey data for all schools, 2017

The 2021 census data is a valuable future resource for understanding travel-to-work patterns, despite the typical delay of several years in obtaining this information Previously, the Scottish Government's National Performance Framework relied on the percentage of journeys to work made via public and active transport, sourced from the Scottish Household Survey; however, the sample size was inadequate for the specific study area.

Assume baseline staff travel survey and follow up surveys as part of Liberty Travel Plan process

Hands Up Survey is annual (though dependent on schools participating) SABI done annually by Transport Scotland

To achieve smarter, more reliable and sustainable movement of goods to, from and through the area:

Freight tonnage carried by road and rail and water

RSI and proportion of HGVs

Traffic data and % of HGVs on A82 and A830

Uncertain if baseline exists – a better indicator would modal split of total freight but would be difficult to calculate RSI 2017

ATCs and reported in STS, also baseline traffic model survey data 2017

Set up monitoring of goods transported from FW area and gather data from key companies (could be commercially sensitive)

RSI repeated in future years

To achieve smarter management of travel demand to reduce seasonal impacts on the transport network:

Modal share for visitors to the area

RSI 2017 on proportion of vehicle drivers on holiday

No baseline known – bespoke survey required RSI

Survey every 2 years of how visitors travelled to FW

RSI could be repeated by Transport Scotland in the future (though can be costly)

Option Generation and Sifting

Introduction

This chapter outlines a comprehensive list of options developed during the study, considering various modes of transport to tackle identified issues and opportunities The options have been crafted in alignment with the draft Transport Planning Objectives (TPOs) to ensure a thorough appraisal process.

As outlined in STAG guidance:

In the initial stages of addressing transport challenges, it is crucial to explore a wide array of options that truly represent the available possibilities Practitioners should not limit their creativity, as generating diverse potential solutions is essential for effectively tackling the identified transport issues and opportunities.

The option generation process has followed the following processes:

 Analysis of problems and opportunities

 Development of Transport Planning Objectives

 Development of Do-Minimum and Reference Cases

 Generation of long list of options

Options

According to STAG, generated options must be evaluated against a do-minimum scenario, which encompasses transport improvements that have received policy and funding approval, making them challenging to retract This do-minimum will be further refined to guide transport modeling in subsequent phases of the appraisal process For this study, the do-minimum currently includes specific transport commitments.

 A82 Nevis Bridge improvements to improve traffic flow within the existing carriageway Project led by Transport Scotland and BEAR, and being progressed in 2018

The Reference Case in STAG encompasses potential future interventions and investments that could impact travel demand but are not yet fully committed, distinguishing it from the Do Minimum scenario This study's Reference Case will be refined in subsequent stages and is expected to incorporate aspects of the emerging West Highlands and Islands Local Development Plan (LDP) that lack secured funding, along with other advanced planning proposals, such as the concept of a multi-modal port facility.

Table 7-1 presents a comprehensive list of options evaluated during the Pre-Appraisal stage, categorized by type—such as road-based, active travel, and public transport—and classified as either infrastructure or management Additionally, the table includes initial commentary on the feasibility, affordability, and public acceptability of each option, where applicable.

An initial assessment of whether option contributes to the five Draft TPOs above has also been carried out using the following scale:

 Positive contribution to draft TPO +

 Uncertainty over contribution or neutral impact 0

 Unlikely to contribute to / negative contribution to TPO -

A recommendation has been made regarding the advancement of each option for further development and appraisal during the Part 1 / Initial Appraisal stage, with the rationale clearly outlined and connected to relevant factors.

 Deliverability (feasibility, affordability and public acceptability)

Table 7-1 Long List of Options

Ref Option Type of measure

(Implementability- feasibility, affordability, public acceptability)

To deliver a health- promoting, sustainable and fair transport network that promotes equal access to opportunity

To develop a transport network that mitigates the economic and social effects of congestion, especially regarding journey time variability for local and strategic transport users, while also supporting future growth in the Lochaber area.

To ensure the transport network is resilient in the event of incidents and road closures

To achieve smarter, more reliable and sustainable movement of goods to, from and through the area

To achieve smarter management of travel demand to reduce seasonal impacts on the transport network

Take forward to Part 1/Initial Appraisal?

A1 New road link between A82 and

Variants of this include the Caol

Link Road as presented in the

Proposed LDP and a bridge crossing of River

Lochy further to the east inland

The construction of a new link road between Fort William and Caol is set to align with the indicative route outlined in the West Highlands and Islands Local Development Plan (LDP) This project aims to connect the A82 An Aird roundabout to the A830 at Blar Mor, and will also feature a rail bridge crossing, enhancing regional connectivity and infrastructure.

New road is anticipated to release capacity which may allow measures such as bus priority to be implemented on existing road network

Highlands and Islands Local Development Plan, Placecheck, Workshop, Telephone interview

- Feasibility issues related to bridge span and physical constraints of the land including flood risk

- Costs anticipated to be high - £35m-£50m as per THC WestPlan Transport Background Paper 2016

- Pinch point issues in residential area of Caol

- Limited public support in affected area (Caol)

(although could be positive if includes active travel infrastructure and bus priority)

(with the caveat new infrastructure may induce more travel demand)

+ 0 0 Take forward for further exploration at Part 1 Appraisal

A2 A82 Realignment Infrastructure Construction of a new road, in line with the indicative route detailed in the West Highlands and Islands LDP

New road is anticipated to release capacity which may allow measures such as bus priority to be implemented on existing road network

Highlands and Islands Local Development Plan, Placecheck, Workshop, Telephone interview

- Limited land ownership issues (most land is owned by THC or Liberty)

- Limited public support in affected area

- No commitment from the Scottish Government as Trunk Road Authority to support the preservation of the A82 line in the LDP

Option does not open up any allocated or proposed development land

(although could be positive if includes active travel infrastructure and bus priority)

(with the caveat new infrastructure may induce more travel demand)

+ 0 0 Take forward for further exploration at Part 1 Appraisal

Infrastructure Dual the A82 within the study area and through Fort William

- Major feasibility issues to dual A82 through built-up urban area lined with

+ + 0 + Do not take forward for further exploration as

Ref Option Type of measure

(Implementability- feasibility, affordability, public acceptability)

To deliver a health- promoting, sustainable and fair transport network that promotes equal access to opportunity

To develop a transport network that mitigates the economic and social effects of congestion, especially in terms of journey time variability, it is essential to cater to both local and strategic transport users while also supporting future growth in the Lochaber area.

To ensure the transport network is resilient in the event of incidents and road closures

To achieve smarter, more reliable and sustainable movement of goods to, from and through the area

To achieve smarter management of travel demand to reduce seasonal impacts on the transport network

Take forward to Part 1/Initial Appraisal? residential, business and industrial frontages

- Significantly high costs associated with option

The study highlights that certain issues, such as the severance of active travel routes and the allocation of road space for buses and active travel, may worsen existing problems Deliverability and significant costs are major barriers that could further increase severance However, some aspects of widening could be explored in option B10.

Infrastructure Dualling of A82 outside of Fort

William (south) would provide overtaking opportunities, improve journey times and journey time reliability and may reduce disruption in the event of accidents or incidents

- Feasibility issues, including physical constraints

- Significantly high costs associated with option

0 0 0 0 0 Do not take forward as outwith the study area and does not contribute strongly to the study objectives

Roads Based – managing and maximising the value and performance of existing infrastructure

Variable Message Signs on the A82, approaching Fort William from both northbound and southbound directions, offer crucial information including parking availability and updates on accidents or delays These signs serve to alert motorists in advance about potential issues on the road network, enhancing travel safety and efficiency.

- Low cost relative to physical infrastructure options

- Maintenance of signs required (preventative and corrective maintenance)

0 + + + + Take forward for further exploration at Part 1 Appraisal as part of a package to improve transport information

Infrastructure Existing bridge creates a pinch point on the strategic road network A new bridge would allow capacity to increase and potentially provide more space for HGVs to manoeuvre

- High costs associated with option anticipated

- Depending on capacity of new bridge, this may not have any impact on road capacity and therefore seasonal congestion issues although could make the

(though could be + if includes improved space for people on foot and on bikes, and

+ + 0 0 Take forward for further exploration at Part 1 Appraisal as part of a package to improve the existing network

Ref Option Type of measure

(Implementability- feasibility, affordability, public acceptability)

To deliver a health- promoting, sustainable and fair transport network that promotes equal access to opportunity

To develop a transport network in the Lochaber area that reduces the economic and social effects of congestion, especially regarding journey time variability, it is essential to cater to both local and strategic transport users while also supporting future growth.

To ensure the transport network is resilient in the event of incidents and road closures

To achieve smarter, more reliable and sustainable movement of goods to, from and through the area

To achieve smarter management of travel demand to reduce seasonal impacts on the transport network

Take forward to Part 1/Initial Appraisal? infrastructure more resilient in the future buses)

Occupancy Vehicles Lanes to discourage single or low use car occupancy on key routes within the town

- Lack of available space to implement measure and may not enjoy public support – space may be better allocated to bus priority at pinch points

- Would require substantial investment in promotion and enforcement to be effective

- Not many examples of HOVs operating in UK and mainly in major urban areas (cities)

(may be positive if additional road capacity as part of this option)

0 + Do not take forward to Part 1 Appraisal as deliverability would be a challenge

B4 Construction of a fixed link at

Infrastructure A fixed link could provide quicker journey times and would reduce costs to motorists This is largely an option however to tackle social and economic issues on

Ardnamurchan, as whilst the A861 does act as a diversionary route for A830 closures, it is of varying standard

Workshop - Highland Council budget constraints

- Road infrastructure may be unable to cope on Ardnamurchan Peninsula with any increase in traffic associated with a fixed link

- Consideration required regarding height of any bridge so shipping can pass beneath

Further exploration beyond the designated study area is not recommended, as it may not effectively address the issues in Fort William Additionally, significant infrastructure upgrades to the A861 would be necessary, and the benefits versus costs of such improvements remain unclear.

A fixed link can significantly improve journey times and lower costs for motorists Additionally, it offers a more efficient alternative route during road closures, such as on the A830, despite the condition of the connecting roads.

Camusnag aul to Fort William

- High costs associated with option including upgrade to A861

- In close proximity to two other major options which currently have status in the Proposed

+ 0 0 0 + Do not take forward to Part 1 Appraisal as deliverability may be an issue (cost), demand for this is not clear (was not

Ref Option Type of measure

(Implementability- feasibility, affordability, public acceptability)

To deliver a health- promoting, sustainable and fair transport network that promotes equal access to opportunity

To develop a transport network in the Lochaber area that reduces the economic and social effects of congestion, particularly in terms of inconsistent journey times, it is essential to cater to both local and strategic transport users while also supporting future growth.

To ensure the transport network is resilient in the event of incidents and road closures

To achieve smarter, more reliable and sustainable movement of goods to, from and through the area

To achieve smarter management of travel demand to reduce seasonal impacts on the transport network

Take forward to Part 1/Initial Appraisal? varying standard LDP (Options A1 and A2 above) – unlikely to deliver all raised extensively in engagement exercise) and benefits may not outweigh significant costs

B6 Improve lining on road surfaces

Worn markings on box junctions and road surfaces hinder police enforcement and confuse visitors navigating the area.

Study area Telephone interviews (IC)

- Low cost relative to other options

- Uncertainty over scale of impact on traffic flow issues

0 + + 0 0 Take forward as part of a package to improve resilience / management of existing road network

B7 Better enforcement of wide loads (wind farms etc.)

Insufficient warning is often provided to local residents regarding the transportation of wide loads, such as wind turbines, leading to significant disruptions in the road network To mitigate these issues, there is a strong need for improved coordination among multiple agencies and enhanced communication with the community.

Strategic Public drop in session

- Input required from Transport Scotland and industry representatives

+ + 0 Take forward as part of a package to improve resilience / management of existing road network

– explore options to minimise traffic impact

Management Option could include management measures (e.g investigating times that the bridge currently opens for canal traffic) or infrastructure measures to minimise risk of failure of swing bridge

- Input from Scottish Canals required

- Potential to be a low cost option though requires further exploration

0 + + 0 + Take forward as part of a package to improve resilience / management of existing road network

B9 Clear/cut back roadside vegetation

Management Overgrown vegetation cited as a problem on A82 Cutting vegetation back would provide a safer driving environment

- Low cost associated with option

- High public acceptability associated with option

0 0 / + + 0 + Take forward as part of a package to improve resilience / management of existing road

Ref Option Type of measure

(Implementability- feasibility, affordability, public acceptability)

To deliver a health- promoting, sustainable and fair transport network that promotes equal access to opportunity

Option Sifting

The following table shows which options have been sifted out at this stage and the rationale behind this process

Option name Rationale for sifting out

A3 A82 dualling within study area Do not take forward as deliverability is a significant barrier

A4 A82 Dualling (Glasgow to Fort William) Do not take forward as outwith the study area and does not contribute strongly to the study objectives

B3 Implementation of High Occupancy Vehicle

Do not take forward to Part 1 Appraisal as deliverability would be a challenge

The proposal for a fixed link at Corran will not be pursued for further exploration, as it lies outside the designated study area, may not effectively resolve issues in Fort William, could necessitate substantial upgrades to the A861 infrastructure, and presents unclear benefits compared to costs.

B5 Fixed link between Fort William and

Before proceeding to Part 1 Appraisal, consider potential deliverability issues related to cost and unclear demand, as this was not significantly highlighted during engagement Additionally, it is essential to ensure that trains provide adequate space for bicycles.

Do not take forward as this topic has already been explored and a commitment made in the Programme for Government to additional bike carriages on the West Highland Line

D7 Rail link between Fort William and Inverness Do not take forward for further exploration as a significant undertaking and not clear if benefits would outweigh the costs

G1 Off-street parking controls all year around Do not take forward as recent changes to off- street car parking standardised across Highland Council area

H1 Liberty - Travel Plan Do not take forward as should already be in place and being delivered as part of the Planning process

H2 New air strip in the area, with one possible option alongside / on A830

The seaplane option is explicitly referenced in the Local Development Plan (LDP), while the airstrip is not mentioned, raising concerns about the feasibility of constructing an airstrip on or adjacent to the A830.

H5 Locate a Police Collision Investigation unit in

Do not take forward to Initial Appraisal – deliverability and need for this is unclear, and would require significant changes in overall Police Scotland operations.

Options to take forward and initial option packaging

The table outlines a preliminary set of individual and packaged options for further exploration, consultation, and appraisal in the initial stage of the STAG process These options will require additional development to evaluate their deliverability and assess their costs and benefits against multiple criteria, paving the way for a comprehensive appraisal in Part 1.

Table 7-3 Options to take forward for further appraisal at Initial / Part 1 Appraisal

Option reference Option title Compatibility issues?

A1 New road link between A82 and A830

Variants of this include the Caol Link Road as presented in the Proposed LDP and a bridge crossing of River Lochy further to the east inland (suggested at stakeholder workshop)

May have compatibility issued with A2 due to funding required

A2 A82 Realignment May have compatibility issued with

B10 Improve efficiency of existing route with smaller-scale infrastructure and traffic management interventions with:

B7 enforcement / management of wide loads

B8 Banavie Swing Bridge operations review

Package to maximise performance of existing road network for general traffic

The B2 Replacement of Nevis Bridge represents a substantial project that could influence the overall costs associated with this option Certain components may need to be categorized into separate sub-options for Part 1 of the Initial Appraisal.

C1 active travel links from public transport hub to town centre

C5 review and add pedestrian crossings

C12 Lochaber College active travel links

C13 Outer Orbital route active travel connections

C14 Address A82 severance at waterfront with town centre

Active travel infrastructure package May be a high cost and medium cost variation within this package Where any roadspace reallocation required, this may not be compatible with B10

D3 Multi-modal sustainable transport hub at Banavie

Bus infrastructure improvement package Each project could have substantial cost – some elements may need to be separated out into sub-options for Part 1 / Initial Appraisal

D1 smart and multi-operator ticketing

The travel behaviour change package includes components that may incur significant costs, such as Mobility as a Service (MaaS) and behaviour change campaigns Additionally, some elements of this package may rely on enhancements to infrastructure, as outlined in the Active Travel infrastructure package.

Option reference Option title Compatibility issues?

Rail service improvement package D6 new rail halts may have compatibility issues with D5 rail timetable review due to impacts on rail journey times on constrained railway

D9 shuttle bus to visitor sites

Bus service improvement package D10 may conflict with some elements of B10 if it restricts movement of general traffic May also conflict with some elements of the active travel infrastructure package

E3 rail freight hub at Corpach

Freight management package E4 may conflict with D5 as limited amount of space on the existing railway line

F2 Corran ferry and bus connections

Marine and water package excluding freight

G4 real-time parking information signs

H6 exploration of access arrangements to support resilience of emergency services during incidents and congestion

Next Steps

This study represents the initial phase of a STAG-based approach aimed at advocating for transportation improvements in Fort William It is linked to The Highland Council’s Proposed West Highlands and Islands Local Development Plan, focusing on the protection of transport infrastructure and relevant policies.

The steering group will decide whether to advance to the Initial / Part 1 Appraisal stage of the STAG process, where options will undergo further development, refinement, and packaging This phase includes additional stakeholder consultations and the agreement on final Transport Planning Objectives Options will be initially appraised against these objectives, STAG criteria, and deliverability criteria Following this, a Detailed / Part 2 Appraisal will quantitatively assess the options, focusing on addressing key issues such as congestion and network resilience The appraisal process aims to identify which options best meet the objectives and provide greater benefits than costs, considering various factors and impacts.

It is recommended that the following areas are researched further in preparation for the next stage of appraisal if appropriate:

 A thorough study of INRIX data to understand where and when travel time variability is greatest

A comprehensive traffic engineering review of the A830 and A82 within the study area aims to enhance Option B10, focusing on optimizing the existing road network and identifying effective locations for bus priority measures.

 An update of the Fort William Active Travel Audit/Masterplan produced by HITRANS with recently completed active travel infrastructure, and with the findings of this Pre-Appraisal work

This article reviews automatic traffic counters on the A82 and A830 to establish a reliable baseline for monitoring future progress The collected data will provide essential insights for any quantitative assessments related to the options developed in this study.