Works start Monday 23 May for 11 weeks

A major footway and crossing improvements project on the A96 through Keith is set to get underway from Monday 23 May.

The project will involve teams carrying out improvements to the crossing points through Keith between Union Street/Moss Street Junction and the petrol station at the west end of Regent Street. In addition to the crossing improvements, footway resurfacing works will also take place. The project will provide safer crossing points and a smoother footway for all users.

The improvements are scheduled to begin on Monday 23 May and are expected to take approximately 11 weeks to complete. Works are programmed to be carried out between 8am and 5pm each day and will take place in phases to minimise disruption. The first phase of works is due to take place at the Union Street/Moss Street Junction.

To ensure the safety of roadworkers, motorists and pedestrians, single lane closures with temporary traffic lights will be in operation. Due to the nature of the works there may be instances where traffic lights are required outwith the working hours. It will also be necessary to have sections of the footway closed during the works and signed diversions will be in place to guide people safely around the worksite. Access to local businesses and all other properties will be maintained throughout the duration of the works.

Consultation has taken place with all relevant stakeholders in advance of the improvements to make them aware of the traffic management arrangements.

Commenting on the improvements, Ian Stewart, BEAR Scotland’s North East Unit Representative, said: “This project forms part of a wider programme of ongoing footway improvements being carried out in Keith and this £105,500 investment from Transport Scotland will greatly improve the safety of the footways in the town as well as create a smoother and safer journey for all users.

“The traffic management planned is essential for ensuring the safety of our workforce as well as footway and road users, however we have planned for the traffic management to be removed outwith working hours where possible to help minimise disruption.

“We thank the residents of the area and motorists for their patience in advance while our teams carry out these works on the A96. We encourage road users to plan their journeys in advance by checking the Traffic Scotland website for up-to-date traffic information and allow some extra time to reach their destination.”

Real-time journey planning information can be obtained by visiting www.trafficscotland.org, twitter at @trafficscotland or via the mobile site my.trafficscotland.org.

Materials removed from the existing carriageway will be recycled using SEPA approved methods.