Falkland road safety' hazard' caused by double yellow lines
FIFE Council may be poised to reverse a controversial decision which has led to vehicles being damaged and pedestrian safety being put at risk in Falkland.
Since the local authority decided to paint double yellow lines on the roadside between the village's historic fountain and the church, several vehicles have had close encounters both with the fountain and pedestrians as they tried to negotiate the structure which sits in the middle of the road.
The move was implemented by the council in a bid to make vehicles travel round the fountain rather than cutting across the roadway, sometimes into the path of oncoming traffic.
However, thanks to a one-man campaign by Falkland shop owner Bob Beveridge — and a series of photos he submitted to the transportation department — the council has said it is prepared to reconsider the lines.
Mr Beveridge said that just last week a vehicle thought to belong to a local hotelier was extensively damaged after being struck by a lorry attempting to get round the fountain.
On this occasion, as with many others according to Mr Beveridge, the vehicle responsible did not stop or even seem to acknowledge anything had happened.
Mr Beveridge explained that despite the double yellow lines being painted at the church, he had seen no advantage to traffic.
"Since September 30 cars have been permitted to park there as, according to nearby signs, the lines are seasonal," he said.
"During this winter period, and with the presence of cars on these lines, the large vehicles have not disappeared.
"The drivers are safely negotiating the fountain via the other side (the south side) in the same way they did prior to these disputed lines being put down.
"All the residents and businesses in the immediate vicinity have been against these lines, and at times pedestrian safety has been compromised with the larger vehicles actually mounting the footpath whilst negotiating the fountain."
Mr Beveridge added: "It is hoped that, as promised, the council will review these lines, and hopefully remove them.
"There was no problem in the past. No obstructions, delays or accidents were reported."
Fife Council transportation spokesman Gordon Hughes said he would re-consult with the community council and local Fife councillors to see if they would wish the lines to be removed.
"When we installed the lines we said we would give them some 'bedding in' time and then assess if they should remain in place," he said.
Mr Hughes said there was a wider issue in Falkland regarding the size of vehicles using the small roads and that the council was looking at ways to discourage large lorries from using some parts of the village.
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Wednesday 22 May 2013
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