Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has welcomed the news that Transport Scotland will not proceed with a proposal to implement a reduced speed limit on the A85 between Crieff and Comrie.
The Strathearn based MSP expressed concern at the piecemeal approach to development a road safety strategy for one of Scotland most dangerous, and said this decision reflected common sense.
Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:
“I am sure I will not be alone in welcoming the fact that Transport Scotland will not proceed with a proposal to implement a reduced speed limit on the A85 between Crieff and Comrie.
“However, the potential development of a ‘piecemeal approach’ to speed limits on the A85 would arguably do little to improve road safety strategy for one of Scotland most dangerous.
“That was the clear view of several constituents who contacted me to express their concern that the 50 mph speed limit will have an adverse effect on road safety. Pointing out that overtaking opportunities will be made more dangerous given a reduced speed.
“I welcome the fact that BEAR Scotland are to use the available accident data to inform the identification of targeted engineering improvements on the A85 between Crieff and Comrie. This will include at Clathick Burn, where a double white line system will be installed. Transport Scotland will also continue to monitor road safety on the A85 between Crieff and Comrie through our Annual Road Safety Review.
“There remains a number of concerns for other stretches on the A85. 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. I will be pressing the Scottish Government to look into what targeted engineering improvements can be put in place at this stretch to make the road safer.”