Plea for town centre support

And council leaders insist that the “short term pain” caused by the scheme - which includes the divisive ‘shared space’ scheme on Cowgate - will be worth it for the “long term gain”.

The first phase of the Cowgate public realm project has been underway since February 8 and is scheduled to be completed around the end of next month.

As part of the ongoing works, temporary traffic lights will be in use on Cowgate at its junctions with Catherine Street and Kerr Street for the next eight weeks.

The lights will be manually controlled between 8am and 5.30pm to reduce congestion.

East Dunbartonshire Council leader Rhondda Geekie said: “Work is now well underway and is already starting to take shape to bring the town into the 21st century which hopefully will attract new shops for local residents.

“Together with the range of improvements already delivered in the town centre - including Barleybank, West High Street, Townhead and Broadcroft - it bodes well for the future sustainability of Kirkintilloch, although we do realise that only when the overall project is completed will people be able to judge.

“We have been monitoring the town centre works and know there has been disruption for traders, shoppers and residents, and for this we apologise, but we also know people have asked for this investment for many years.

“We want to thank everyone involved for their patience during the works.

“I am sure the long-term gain for our town centre will more than outweigh the short-term pain, and would ask everyone to bear with us.

“Pedestrian access is being maintained throughout the works and I hope people continue to support Kirkintilloch town centre, with a range of transport options available.”

The council has been working with organisations such as First Glasgow, Sustrans and Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) to try to minimise disruption.

A leaflet providing information on revised bus services and stops is available locally and at Buchanan Street Bus Station. Visit www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk to download a copy.

Bus information, route and timetable alterations, and a journey planner can also be found at www.firstglasgow.com

Pedestrian access through Cowgate is being maintained at all times and businesses are open as usual.

The council’s contractor - Rainton Construction - has been in touch with local traders and residents about the works and deliveries, while the council provides business support at www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/business/business-support.