Local residents delighted at Traffic Lights Success

4.31.58pm GMT Thu 26th Nov 2009

Local residents have welcomed the decision of the Council's Transport, Environment and Infrastructure Committee on Tuesday 24 November to approve traffic lights at the dangerous junction of West Savile Terrace and Mayfield Road. The junction has the been the site of 26 accidents in the past fifteen years around two thirds of which involve cyclists being hit by cars.

The Committee heard that the scheme had the support of Grange Prestonfield Community Council in whose area it lies. Liberal Democrat, SNP, Labour and Green Councillors supported the proposal which was supported by the majority of those who had responded to a council consultation in the area. Conservative Councillors sought to have the decision delayed for further investigations, but the proposal was carried by a substantial majority.

Local resident and Liberal Democrat Prospective Parliamentary Candidate Fred Mackintosh said, "I am delighted that Councillors have moved promptly to address the dangers to cyclists and pedestrians at this junction. For a decade the previous administration refused to act and two or three accidents happened regularly each year. Once the lights are in place the casualty rate should fall and the junction will be a less stressful crossing place for parents, residents and students on their way to Kings Buildings."

Committee Convenor Councillor Gordon Mackenzie has confirmed that the traffic light controlled junction will be in place before the end of the financial year at the end of March.

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Read the report considered by the committee on 24 November.