URGENT talks are being demanded with the Transport Secretary over the A75 closure and diversions.
Roadworks are currently underway and expected to last over a month.
And as part of that, 96 mile diversions are in place, which are adding hours to motorists’ journeys.
Galloway and West Dumfries MSP Finlay Carson has written to Fiona Hyslop requesting a meeting to discuss the ongoing ‘saga’ after being inundated with complaints from constituents.
He said: “I have asked the Transport Secretary to meet with me quickly to discuss this matter, especially as the full overnight closures plan to last more than a month.
“The closures have already resulted in lengthy diversions, at times via roads that are totally unsuitable.”
While he accepted the road maintenance schemes are vital, Mr Carson added: “Questions need to be asked about the capacity within AMEY to carry these works out over a shorter timescale and with equipment which doesn’t necessitate full closure.
“I believe closures could be avoided by aligning schemes for example.”
In his letter to the Cabinet Secretary, the MSP said: “I would welcome a response as soon as possible given the work programme ahead and the inevitable impact these decisions are having on the vital ports at Cairnryan.”
The improvement works mean a stretch of the A75 is closed between 8 pm and 6 am this week, with more work planned later in the month.
AMEY has insisted the diversion could take up to two-and-a-half hours but it had done everything possible to minimise disruption.
The firm also says it’s needed due to the condition of the carriageway.
It means journeys between Newton Stewart and Castle Douglas – that normally take around 40 minutes – could now last more than four times longer.
The disruption has caused serious problems for HGVs travelling to the ports at Cairnryan especially on the first night of the closures when no diversion signs were in place to advise drivers.
The company confirmed it had been involved in “extensive discussions” with ferry operators, emergency services and the haulage industry.
AMEY say by working off-peak and overnight it had made every attempt to reduce disruption and they pointed out work will be suspended during next week’s school holidays.
