New puffin crossing to be installed on Oriel Road

And it is hoped that the puffin crossing on Oriel Road next to its junction with Strathallan Drive will not only make it easier for pedestrians to cross to reach the bus stop and woodland on the other side, but will also help to slow down speeding traffic.

The speed of vehicles travelling down into the town centre has been an ongoing problem for residents living in the estates off Oriel Road for many years.

The news of the crossing, which is scheduled to be constructed over the summer, was welcomed this week by Councillor Susan Leslie and local residents who say it will make the busy road safer for pedestrians.

“This is a small step towards making this area safer,” said Cllr Leslie.

Scarlett Archer, who walks her dog Lola in the estate, said: “This is going to be so much safer. At the moment it is so difficult for people to cross this road.”

Cllr Leslie added: “This may also slow down the traffic on Oriel Road when the crossing is being used but will not solve the bigger problem of turning in and out of the estate and the congestion around the school.

“The real solution would be full traffic lights and a part time one way system through the estate at school start and finishing times when getting and out of the busy junctions off Oriel Road can be a real nightmare.”

Ian Smith, Fife Council’s lead professional for traffic management in mid Fife, said: “A new puffin crossing will be installed on Oriel Road at the Strathallan Drive junction. This will improve road safety for those crossing the road to use the bus stop. We currently have work programmed in to be carried out this summer.”