|
Properly funded and detailed research is a major priority for
HITRANS. It is important to have an evidence base to support
strategy proposals and investment in transport services and infrastructure. Without
the evidence collected by research initiatives, HITRANS cannot
make the case for further investment to the Scottish Executive
on behalf of the communities of the Highlands and Islands.
A variety of areas for development are being studied. These include:
The Aberdeen-Inverness Transport Corridor Study: Working the Scottish Executive
and NESTRANS, this Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance is looking at the
best way to make progress.
Ferry Traffic Origin and Destination Study: Working with Shetland, the Scottish
Executive, and Strathclyde Partnership for Transport. this looks at establishing
a picture of ferry traffic flows.
The economic impact of A9 improvements: Working with HIE, this will look at
the regional gains from road improvements.
Fife Rail: One of the keys to significantly shorter journey times between Inverness
and Edinburgh is improvements to rail lines in Fife. Working with TACTRAN and
NESTRANS, a study will look at options for line speed improvements.
Coastal Shipping: Working with HIE, this study will look at the prospects for
reviving coastal shipping and encouraging the building of suitable sized ships
for smaller ports.
Economic impact of airports: Working with Highlands and Airports Ltd and HIE,
this will look at the social and economic impact of regional airports on their
local communities.
[Links to research papers]
|
