'˜Just put the lights back, please!'

Photo Emma Mitchell 01.08.16
Traffic problems at Catherine Street Junction — Photo Emma Mitchell 01.08.16 Traffic problems at Catherine Street Junction

The council’s Facebook page has been inundated with weary residents calling for the traffic lights to be put back at the Catherine St/Kerr St junction with Cowgate, part of the  divisive shared space.

Council boss Thomas Glen revealed consultation will be held on two potential layouts to reintroduce traffic signals at the junction.

He said members of the public, community groups, businesses and other interested parties are being invited to have their say in person at drop-in events or online. Drop-in consultation sessions are being held on Thursday, February 15, Friday, February 16 and Saturday, February 17 between 9am and 5pm at 46 Cowgate, Kirkintilloch, G66 1HN (the premises formerly occupied by The Old Sweetie Shop).

Mr Glen said information will be available theer and online between February 15 and February 22 at www.eastdun barton.gov.uk/council/con sultations on the two potential layouts.

The Herald reported back in November that a shock report to councillors by engineering. environment and designing company Sweco  estimates it may cost between £417,000 and £650,000. and take two years to reinstate the traffic lights.

Attendees will be able to ask questions, give their views on how the junction is working, and offer opinions and comments on which options they prefer regarding the possible reintroduction of traffic signals to the junction.

Eileen Aitken echoed the views of many residents on the council’s Facebook page, posting: “Put the traffic lights back, please. No need for consultation.  Residents didn’t want the shared space and will be grateful to have a safer junction”.

This latest consultation is in addition to a separate one currently being led by Kirkintilloch Community Council on the town centre, which includes the shared space.

The Herald reported last week that many residents are sceptical of the latter, particulalry as safety issues are not covered in an online survey and a demand has been made for a proper public meeting to enable people to express their views.