Residents' road safety fears

Residents of Union Street, in Kirkintilloch, claim they face traffic chaos daily as vehicles are diverted to their road because of work on the controversial shared space at Cowgate.

They say cars regularly mount the pavements and one mum, whose front door opens directly on to the street, is so anxious about her toddler’s safety she now backs out of her home when he is in the pram.

One woman said: “We have complained about this road for the best part of 20 years. Two years ago, we were assured something would be done.

“The shared space, which went ahead despite being widely condemned by the wider community, has had a significant impact.

“Problems are considerably worse, and the danger and risk to pedestrians and families living on the road with small children have increased.

“There are ongoing arguments between drivers outside our doors, horns blaring and motorists driving on the pavement. The council are blatantly ignoring us.”

Thomas Glen, group director of Place and Neighbourhood, said: “We are aware of the residents of Union Street’s concerns and council officers have previously engaged with them to discuss a solution to the issues experienced.

“A parking solution was proposed to the residents but this was not felt to be the desired solution for the area.

“Officers are now looking at a solution that will have elements of both parking restrictions and traffic calming and will met again with residents in the near future to discuss proposals.”