A9(T) Tore Modelling

Description

Transport Scotland previously commissioned a study under the DMRSS Framework to assess the safety and operational performance of the A9(T) corridor between North Kessock and Tore Roundabout, covering approximately 6km. This included both carriageways, North Kessock Junction, Tore Roundabout, and all intermediate junctions. The study reflected concerns raised by the DFM and her constituents and included extensive community engagement and options testing. The study took a holistic view of the corridor’s current performance and considered the influence of existing and future developments contributing traffic to this section of the A9. It identified several issues consistent with previous assessments and proposed a range of improvement options, including the signalisation of Tore Roundabout and potential closure or restriction of various intermediate junctions on the A9 between Tore and North Kessock. Following this, a VISSIM model was developed to evaluate the operational impact of signalising Tore Roundabout to improve active travel provision particularly to the local primary school. and the potential closure of Munlochy Junction. Building on the previous modelling work, the next phase aims to update or expand the analysis to assess: - The impact on the road network of signalising Tore Roundabout in the context of future development from the Black Isle and wider area. - The implications of closing Munlochy Junction, particularly for remaining right-turn movements across the A9 between Munlochy Junction and Tore Roundabout. - The potential implications at the junctions between Munlochy/ North Kessock and Tore itself. The updated study will evaluate: - Traffic flow along the A9(T) - Local access and connectivity for Tore residents - Broader network performance and journey times - The effects of local development on the A9, A835 and connecting local roads vis a vis the options for change on the A9 itself. Lot 1: Background Transport Scotland previously commissioned a study under the DMRSS Framework to assess the safety and operational performance of the A9(T) corridor between North Kessock and Tore Roundabout, covering approximately 6km. This included both carriageways, North Kessock Junction, Tore Roundabout, and all intermediate junctions. The study reflected concerns raised by the DFM and her constituents and included extensive community engagement and options testing. The study took a holistic view of the corridor’s current performance and considered the influence of existing and future developments contributing traffic to this section of the A9. It identified several issues consistent with previous assessments and proposed a range of improvement options, including the signalisation of Tore Roundabout and potential closure or restriction of various intermediate junctions on the A9 between Tore and North Kessock. Following this, a VISSIM model was developed to evaluate the operational impact of signalising Tore Roundabout to improve active travel provision particularly to the local primary school. and the potential closure of Munlochy Junction. Objective Building on the previous modelling work, the next phase aims to update or expand the analysis to assess: - The impact on the road network of signalising Tore Roundabout in the context of future development from the Black Isle and wider area. - The implications of closing Munlochy Junction, particularly for remaining right-turn movements across the A9 between Munlochy Junction and Tore Roundabout. - The potential implications at the junctions between Munlochy/ North Kessock and Tore itself. The updated study will evaluate: - Traffic flow along the A9(T) - Local access and connectivity for Tore residents - Broader network performance and journey times - The effects of local development on the A9, A835 and connecting local roads vis a vis the options for change on the A9 itself. Scope of Services A suitably qualified consultant will be appointed to undertake the following tasks: 1. Modelling Methodology - Develop and agree a robust methodology to assess the proposed signalisation and the impacts of future development growth from the Black Isle. - Select and justify appropriate modelling software/tools that can be used to help demonstrate the impact of proposed signalisation, and future traffic growth to local residents. - Incorporate the impact of closing the right turn to Munlochy and other potential intermediate gaps on the A9. 2. Sensitivity Testing & Recommendations - Conduct sensitivity testing to reflect current and committed growth as outlined in the Local Development Plan. - Analyse modelling outputs to assess the impact of proposed mitigation measures and development growth on journey times and overall network performance. - Provide clear, evidence-based recommendations for next steps in the Tore and Black Isle Study.