Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP has expressed concerns about details of A85 speed limits safety review. The Strathearn based MSP has called for additional local consultation to be undertaken prior to any changes being put in place.
Liz Smith MSP said:
“I very much welcome the fact that Transport Scotland has reviewed road safety on the A85 and that action has been taken to reduce speed limits on some of the stretches of road which have seen the worst accident levels over many years.
“However, having carefully studied the recommendations, I am struggling to understand some of the other decisions. For example, no proposals have been brought forward to improve the stretch of the road at New Fowlis about which there has been the greatest concern amongst local people, including amongst the relevant local community councils. This seems extraordinary given the extent of public complaint.
“Likewise, with drivers being required to make so many, relatively frequent changes to their speed over a short mileage, I can't help feeling there will be increased driver frustration.
“I am also concerned that some other improvements which should have been completed by now have not yet attended been attended to. I have in my possession a letter confirming that the double white lines which have been worn away at the blind summit at Burnbrae would be renewed in October but we are still waiting. This is recognised as one of the most dangerous stretches for overtaking and I regret that we are still awaiting action, especially as this was the site of the worst fatal accident in 2007.
“It is vital that genuine consultation is now undertaken and I hope that the Transport Minister will listen very carefully to local concerns prior to any decision being taken to take forward any new proposals.”