New traffic light system being installed at junction with Allander Centre causes uproar

Temporary traffic lights put up for the start of the work on the A81 demonstrate the extent of the problem as cars back all the way towards Milngavie police station

They say it will further negatively impact the flow of traffic on the A81 road and have hit out at what they describe as “bullying tactics of East Dunbartonshire Council” by pressing ahead without consideration of the impact on the local community.

They are accusing the council of carrying out the “ill-thought out plan” just to fulfil a non-essential promise to the development of the new Allander Leisure Centre.

Traffic lights at the location, they say, will mean standing traffic on Milngavie Road, reduced air quality, difficulties turning right out of Mosshead Road and loss of on-street parking for a number of residents who have had this facility for over 90 years.

Families facing losing their parking facility include Lynne and Alistair McLean who have a disabled daughter.

In a letter to local councillors, Lynne wrote: “It is a privilege but a challenge to raise a disabled child.

"But please do not make this even more of a challenge for us by cutting off our ability to maintain our daughter's safety and allow the amenity of access to our properties.

"I would urge you to re-consider the proposal.”

Ironically, as work began last week to prepare for the new installation, a temporary set of traffic lights was placed at the junction – which resulted in traffic backing up all the way to the police station on Main Street, Milngavie.

Turn to page 10.