B9039
| B9039 | ||||
| Location Map ( geo) | ||||
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| From: | Newton of Petty (NH742487) | |||
| To: | Ardersier (NH782551) | |||
| Via: | Castle Stuart | |||
| Distance: | 4.9 miles (7.9 km) | |||
| Meets: | A96, B9092, B9006 | |||
| Highway Authorities | ||||
| Traditional Counties | ||||
| Route outline (key) | ||||
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The B9039 is a link road in northeast Inverness-shire, being part of the shortest route from Inverness to Fort George. The road was originally unclassified but gained its number in the early 1920s.
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The route starts on the A9 near the tiny settlement of Newton of Petty (approximately four houses) and heads north, quickly passing under the Inverness to Nairn railway line. The road goes through a series of right-angle bends before it climbs through the fields; at the second right turn the lane to the left leads up to Castle Stuart, which has been visible on and off since passing under the railway. Now heading north east, the route continues to gently gain height, despite being barely half a mile from the coast, reaching a summit of almost 35m before starting to descend. After passing through trees, a right turn leads to the Dalcross Industrial Estate, and Inverness Airport, and ultimately back to the A96.
The route now runs parallel to the main runway, close enough to see the planes, while to the left is the Moray Firth, almost lapping at the edge of the tarmac in places, making this a spectacular road to drive. There are fine views across to the Black Isle, and ahead the bay curves around to Ardersier, with the road curving with it. Just before reaching the village, the road kinks to the left, sticking to the coast almost to the bitter end. On the near side of the village the B9092 leads off to the right, after which the B9039 runs alternately along the coast and between houses, as the shoreline meanders back and forth. A sharp right squeezes between buildings and leads to a T-junction with the B9006 in the middle of the village, where the route ends. Left leads to Fort George and right leads back to the A96.
Future Propsals
There are medium term plans to dual the [{A96]] between Inverness and Nairn, with the route and junction design largely decided. The proposals as they stand would almost certainly see the B9039 extended west to the new Balloch Junction, where it would meet a re-routed Barn Church Road at a Dumbbell Junction.