Residents’ views vital on danger road report

20-06-2015 Picture Roberto Cavieres. 59 Waterside Road, Kirkintilloch G66 3QW. Photo of Stephen Wright (park round back) and supporters campaigning for safety measures after his home was hit again by an out-of-control driver. Please also include general pic illustrating where speeding drivers are causing chaos at junction of Waterside Road and Bankhead Road.

Kirkintilloch East MP Stuart McDonald said the council should “ensure their views are heard.”

An independent report was commissioned by the council in July after two major crashes at Waterside Road and Bankhead Road in Kirkintilloch over the past year.

Last October, Stephen Wright and his family cheated death when a car smashed into their house at the junction. Then in June, the same family were shocked when a motorbike crashed at the same spot.

The Herald joined with the family, residents and politicians to demand traffic calming measures be installed.

The independent report is now complete and due to be discussed by councillors at a committee meeting next month.

Mr McDonald said: “While the independent report is an important and useful step forward, it isn’t the final word. It outlines a number of options – in choosing between those options I think it’s important residents are involved. They will also have comments and questions.

He added: “I welcome residents will be written to about the meeting, and the report available in advance. However, it’s one thing to tell residents about the decision-making process and another to involve them in it, and ensure their views are heard.

“Council officials should consider having a meeting with residents and elected representatives before any decision is taken.”

Grace Irvine of Neighbourhood Services, said residents had been sent letters about the October 13 meeting and the report would be on the council website from October 7.

She added: “As previously stated we are happy to meet with Mr McDonald and it’s appropriate any meeting take place after the Neighbourhood Services Committee on 13 October. We will then be in a position to discuss proposed measures and consultation with residents and stakeholders.”