ROADS chiefs are set to clamp down on drivers who are increasing the risk of a collision in Castle Douglas.
A traffic regulation order for waiting restrictions is being proposed for a section of the A745 Oakwell Road and U473s Station Yard Industrial Estate.
This is in response to concerns about drivers parking in areas where they are obstructing visibility – and even blocking some business owners from accessing their premises in the industrial estate.
At Stewartry area committee next Wednesday, councillors will be asked to give the green light to introducing double yellow lines on the road to prevent these traffic issues.
While several business owners are in favour of this move, one trader sent a letter to Dumfries and Galloway Council in February objecting to any waiting restrictions on the roads.
The unnamed business owner wrote: “There are a considerable amount of parked cars/vans using parking spaces on a regular basis in the proposed area, and we fear that there will not be enough parking space if the proposal goes ahead, leaving our customers struggling to park anywhere.
“This would have a very negative impact on our business.
“We hope that you take into consideration business needs on an industrial estate.
“We are happy to discuss further to come to an agreeable solution.”
Council roads safety officials sent a lengthy response, stating: “Concerns were raised by a local business owner about inconsiderate parking at this location which was obstructing visibility and restricting vehicular movement along specified lengths of the A475 Oakwell Road and U473s Station Yard Industrial Estate.
“Due to this behaviour, drivers are often blocked from entering and exiting their businesses.
“This is classed as inconsiderate parking that is non-compliant with the Highway Code and increases the risk of collision.
“The introduction of waiting restrictions at these locations was deemed an appropriate solution in terms of improving both road safety and visibility for all road users.”
Roads officers insist that they have consulted with Police Scotland and local councillors, who were not opposed to the scheme.
The council report stated: “Members of the network strategy and road safety team approached and engaged with 11 local businesses in the vicinity of Station Yard Industrial Estate for feedback and comments prior to advertisement of the order.
“Of these, two were unavailable for comment, seven were in full support of the scheme, and two were considering whether to make a formal objection.”
Councillors will discuss the matter next Wednesday and make the final decision.
