Perthshire Pensioner Banned After Causing Road Collision with Pram
A Perthshire road incident involving an elderly driver and a woman pushing a pram has resulted in a driving ban and a substantial fine for the pensioner. The incident, which occurred in September 2022 on the B9099 between Stanley and Luncarty, brought to light concerns about road safety and the impact of such events on the local community. 84-year-old Michael McEwan, a resident of Craigie Road in Perth, was found guilty of careless driving following a jury trial at Forfar Sheriff Court. The original charge of dangerous driving was reduced, but the court determined that McEwan’s actions were negligent and directly contributed to the incident. Sequence of Events and Injuries The incident unfolded as McEwan was driving along the rural B9099, where his car was observed repeatedly swerving across the road. Ultimately, the vehicle mounted the kerb near Downhill Cottage, colliding with the woman and her pram. Thankfully, the 18-month-old child in the pram escaped unharmed. However, the woman suffered injuries, including a mild head injury and a fractured toe, requiring treatment at Ninewells Hospital’s A&E department. Initially discharged with a moon boot, the woman’s condition worsened, with subsequent visits to her GP in Stanley revealing further bruising. Additionally, she reported experiencing night terrors a month after the collision, necessitating the prescription of beta-blockers. Legal Proceedings and Sentencing During the court proceedings, McEwan’s solicitor, Linda Clark, emphasized her client’s advanced age, his previously unblemished legal record, and his involvement in community volunteer work. Ms. Clark expressed confidence that such an incident would not reoccur and highlighted McEwan’s dedication to community service. Sheriff Mark Thorley considered these factors, along with McEwan’s cooperation with social workers following the incident. However, given the severity of the situation and the lasting impact on the victim, Sheriff Thorley imposed a fine of £1,575 and disqualified McEwan from driving for three years. As the damage to the pram had already been addressed by McEwan’s insurer, no additional compensation order was issued. The Sheriff characterized McEwan’s driving as showing ‘a matter of some carelessness,’ acknowledging the disruption this ban would cause to his volunteering activities, as he would now be reliant on others for transportation. This incident serves as a reminder for drivers of all ages in Perth and Kinross to exercise caution, especially on rural roads. Road safety initiatives and community support networks are vital to ensuring the well-being of all residents, and incidents like this one underscore the need for continued focus on these efforts. This case has resonated with Perth residents who frequent the scenic B9099, popular with families for walks and outings to local attractions like the Stanley Mills and the village of Luncarty. The outcome has sparked conversations about road safety, senior driving assessments, and the need for increased vigilance on rural roads. Furthermore, the incident has prompted local community groups to organize initiatives aimed at promoting safe driving practices, especially for senior citizens. These include workshops on road awareness and car maintenance checks, encouraging proactive measures to prevent future accidents. These initiatives are part of a broader effort within the Perth and Kinross area to improve road safety for everyone. The victim’s recovery is being closely followed by the local community, demonstrating the sense of care and support prevalent in the area. Local support groups and organizations are offering assistance to help the woman manage the lingering effects of the accident and return to her regular activities.
Royal Treasures from Fife’s Coast to be Auctioned in Perth
A fascinating piece of Fife’s royal history is making its way to Perth for a highly anticipated auction. Three unique signed portraits of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, are set to be sold at Lindsay Burns auction house on Tuesday, April 29th. These aren’t just any royal photographs; they hold a special connection to the East Neuk of Fife. The portraits were originally gifted by the Queen and the Duke to the Craw’s Nest Hotel in Anstruther back in 1982. The royal couple had dined at the hotel during a visit to the region, which included engagements in St Andrews, Anstruther, Methil, and Glenrothes. The photographs have remained within the same family who owned the hotel ever since, making this a truly remarkable opportunity for collectors and royal enthusiasts. A Royal Thank You Turned Auction Highlight Taken by renowned photographer Peter Grujeon, the portraits capture individual images of the Queen and the Duke, as well as a picture of them together. Each photograph bears the signatures of the royal couple, adding to their historical value. Auctioneer Nick Burns of Lindsay Burns auction house anticipates that these extraordinary items will garner considerable attention, suggesting an estimated value between £100 and £200 each. However, given the rarity and provenance of the portraits, there’s a strong possibility they could exceed this valuation. The Craw’s Nest Hotel, a landmark establishment on the Fife coast, held a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Its connection to this piece of royal history further elevates its significance in the region’s heritage. The auction of these portraits provides a unique glimpse into a moment in time, when royalty graced the Fife coastline and left a lasting impression. A Treasure Trove of Antiques and Art Beyond the royal portraits, the Lindsay Burns auction is brimming with an impressive array of over 860 lots, encompassing antiques, art, and interior design pieces. Collectors and bargain hunters are encouraged to explore the diverse offerings, which promise something for every taste and budget. Among the many intriguing items is a 19th-century Maori fighting staff, known as a Taiaha. This intricately carved weapon, traditionally used in warfare and revered as a sacred treasure in Maori culture, is expected to command a price of at least £1,500. Adding a local touch to the auction is a bronze model of a Modena pigeon by Perthshire sculptor William Hepworth. Hepworth, known for his wildlife-inspired bronze works, is a significant figure in Perth’s art scene. His creations can be found across the region, including the Torso de Femme sculpture near the Fergusson Gallery in Perth and the Queen Mother Memorial Gates at Balhousie Castle. The pigeon sculpture is estimated to be worth £150 to £300. Gold Rush at the Auction House Reflecting current market trends, the auction also features a substantial collection of gold jewellery and other precious metal items. With gold prices reaching record highs, many sellers are capitalizing on the opportunity to achieve impressive returns on their investments. One standout piece in this category is a nine-carat gold cigarette case from Asprey of Bond Street, London, anticipated to fetch approximately £3,500. The two-day sale, scheduled for April 29th and 30th, offers ample opportunities to explore and bid on a wide selection of items, from historical artefacts to contemporary art and everything in between. The auction house on King Street in Perth is open for public viewing on the weekend leading up to the auction. Potential bidders can examine the lots in person on Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm, Sunday from 1 pm to 3 pm, and Monday from 9 am to 5 pm. Bids can be placed either online or in person during the auction itself. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique piece to add to your home, this auction promises a rich tapestry of treasures waiting to be discovered.
Weekend Court Roundup: Assault, Tragedy, and Digital Deception
Several cases from across Tayside and Fife concluded this week, offering a glimpse into the diverse legal proceedings impacting local communities. From violent altercations to tragic accidents and breaches of digital restrictions, these stories highlight a range of issues affecting residents of Perth and Kinross and beyond. Kirkcaldy Assault and Robbery In Kirkcaldy, Neil Proctor, 46, pled guilty to assault and robbery following an incident on March 31st of last year. The attack, which took place in a green space near East March Street and Cairns Street East, left the victim with severe injuries, including a missing tooth and loosened teeth. Proctor, acting alongside an unidentified accomplice, repeatedly punched the victim in the head before stealing £70 from his pockets. The court heard Proctor had a history of violent offenses, including a prior conviction for assault resulting in severe injury and permanent disfigurement. His defense lawyer, Callum Harris, attributed Proctor’s actions to drug use but highlighted that his client was now sober and working towards rehabilitation. Sheriff Robert More deferred sentencing until May 20th pending background reports. Kinloch Rannoch Accident Further north, in Kinloch Rannoch, Andrew Dewar-McCabe received a community sentence after pleading guilty to causing the death of his aunt, 69-year-old Jacqueline Gadd. The tragic incident occurred in June 2022 when Dewar-McCabe reversed over Ms. Gadd with a pick-up truck loaded with tools and hay bale wraps. The court heard how the weight of the load contributed to the severity of Ms. Gadd’s injuries, which sadly proved fatal. Described as “consumed by remorse”, Dewar-McCabe was given an unpaid work order and a driving ban. Brechin Sex Offender Breaches SHPO In Brechin, a registered sex offender, Aaron Ryan, 26, found himself facing new charges after police were called to a Montrose Tesco due to his disruptive behaviour. While Ryan was not committing any criminal acts at the time, police, aware of his existing Sexual Harm Prevention Order (SHPO), requested access to his phone. They discovered pornographic material accessible through a VPN (Virtual Private Network), which violated the terms of Ryan’s seven-year SHPO imposed in 2021, which restricted his internet usage. Ryan claimed ignorance of the specifics of his bail conditions. Sheriff George Way sentenced Ryan to 18 months of supervision, 100 hours of unpaid work, and added him to the sex offenders’ register for 18 months. Kennoway Theft Meanwhile, in Kennoway, 20-year-old Daniel McNeil pled guilty to theft after stealing from a sex worker he had hired. After consuming alcohol at a friend’s house in Methil, McNeil ordered an Uber to transport the woman to the property. Following a sexual encounter, McNeil, apparently dissatisfied, took money from the woman’s handbag before she left in distress. The incident highlights the vulnerability of those involved in sex work and the potential dangers they may encounter. Dundee Assault on Police Finally, in Dundee, a court appearance marked by heightened security saw Carrie Ann Brown, 42, plead guilty to several charges relating to assaults on police officers. During the virtual hearing, six officers in riot gear were present as Brown, who is Hepatitis C positive, admitted to threatening violence and spitting at officers at the Carseview Centre and during transport to Dundee’s police headquarters on March 25th. She also pled guilty to headbutting and attempting to kick an officer while claiming to be infected with the virus. Brown’s solicitor, Ross Bennet, described how Brown was now under protection in prison due to the disclosure of her health status. Sheriff Derek Reekie deferred sentencing until next month and remanded Brown in custody.
Dewars Centre Gym Exceeds Expectations, On Track to Surpass Bell’s Sports Centre Attendance
Perth’s Dewars Centre gym is proving a resounding success, attracting nearly 100,000 visitors since its opening last September. This impressive figure suggests it’s on course to eclipse attendance numbers previously seen at the gym’s former location within Bell’s Sports Centre. Following the devastating flood damage to Bell’s Sports Centre caused by the open floodgates incident in October 2023, Live Active Leisure (LAL) relocated the gym equipment to the Dewars Centre, a venue primarily known for curling. This move has seen the Dewars Centre transformed into a comprehensive fitness hub, boasting a 100-station gym and two dedicated fitness studios. A Triumphant Transition LAL Chief Executive Paul Cromwell recently updated Perth and Kinross Council’s scrutiny and performance committee on the Dewars Centre’s progress. The latest data reveals a remarkable 98,725 visits to the gym and fitness studios, with a diverse user base spanning ages 11 to 90. Notably, a significant portion of gym-goers are young people (11-17 years old) and older adults (over 64), representing one-quarter and one-tenth of total visitors, respectively. The Dewars Centre is also becoming a training ground for elite athletes, with over 40 current and aspiring Olympic and Commonwealth competitors using the facility for strength and conditioning. A Bright Future for Fitness in Perth Mr. Cromwell expressed great satisfaction with these positive trends, stating that the monthly average of 16,000 usages is projected to surpass the benchmarks set by the renovated Bell’s Sports Centre gym. This achievement is particularly noteworthy, given the popularity of the previous facility, which had undergone a £750,000 upgrade shortly before the flood. The relocation to Dewars Centre did necessitate repurposing the venue, requiring the removal of the indoor bowling rink to accommodate the gym facilities. This adaptation, however, has evidently been well-received by the public. Mr. Cromwell highlighted the gym’s broad appeal, saying, “The fact we have got better numbers than what was a really good facility at Bell’s gives us a clear reflection that people are enjoying the facilities.” He emphasized the centre’s role in supporting both community members and elite athletes across a variety of sports, from hockey and curling to basketball, swimming, judo, football, and athletics. Looking Ahead: The Future of Perth’s Leisure Facilities While the Dewars Centre gym is flourishing, questions remain about the long-term future of both Dewars Centre and Bell’s Sports Centre. With the council’s approval of plans for a new PH2O leisure centre at the Thimblerow car park location, the roles of existing facilities are under review. A community-led campaign advocates for building PH2O at Glover Street, where the Dewars Centre and Perth Leisure Pool currently stand. Additionally, local sports organizations have voiced their concerns about the proposed conversion of Bell’s Sports Centre into an unheated events venue with indoor pitches. The council is set to re-evaluate these decisions in June, taking into account community feedback and the demonstrated success of the Dewars Centre gym. This situation underscores the ongoing discussion regarding the future of leisure provisions in Perth. While the Dewars Centre’s success story offers encouraging prospects for community health and athletic development, the ultimate configuration of Perth’s sports and leisure landscape will be a key focus in the months to come. The Courier previously campaigned for a new leisure facility in Perth that would provide for all sports, including leisure swimming and curling.
Crieff Road Gas Works Continue to Cause Frustration for Perth Commuters
Motorists and residents in Perth are experiencing ongoing delays and disruptions due to extended gas works on Crieff Road. The project, managed by Scottish Gas Networks (SGN), has been underway since March 24th at the intersection of Crieff Road and Unity Terrace. The works have necessitated temporary traffic lights on Crieff Road and a full closure of Unity Terrace, significantly impacting traffic flow. Residents Voice Concerns Over Congestion and Project Timeline The five-week duration of the roadworks has drawn criticism from locals, who have expressed frustration over the persistent congestion on this key Perth route. One resident living adjacent to the construction site described the situation as a “nightmare,” highlighting the increasing frequency of roadworks on Crieff Road in recent years. They noted the significant traffic backups caused by the lane closures and questioned the efficiency of the project, citing instances where no workers were visible at the site. This resident, who has lived in the area for three decades, emphasized the disruption to traffic flow on what they called a “main artery road” in Perth. The ongoing nature of these gas works follows a six-week closure of a different section of Crieff Road last year for sewer maintenance by Scottish Water, between Newhouse Road and Huntingtower Road. This previous closure further compounded the traffic challenges faced by Perth commuters, adding to the sense of frustration among residents. SGN Explains Complexities and Uncertain Completion Date SGN has addressed the community’s concerns, acknowledging the extensive nature of the repairs and the challenges posed by the depth of the gas main and the presence of other underground utilities. The company has stated that while progress is being made, they are unable to provide a definitive timeline for project completion. A spokesperson for SGN explained that the intricate nature of the repair work requires careful navigation around existing infrastructure, further complicated by the depth of the gas main. They also highlighted the impact of the recent heavy rainfall and flooding on the project timeline. While the spokesperson couldn’t offer a specific completion date, they assured the public that SGN is committed to resolving the issue as quickly and safely as possible, minimizing disruption to the Perth community. They emphasized the company’s dedication to maintaining a safe working environment and minimizing the impact on local businesses along Crieff Road, such as those near the Inveralmond Roundabout. SGN thanked the community for their patience as they continue to address the complex gas main issue. The company also encouraged Perth residents to access their online resources for project updates and alternative travel routes during the remaining period of the gas works, aiming to improve communication and reduce travel disruptions. This situation on Crieff Road coincides with another extended gas repair project currently underway on the Blairgowrie to Alyth road, which is anticipated to last for three weeks. This additional closure is likely to create further travel complications for residents in the broader Perthshire area.
Macbeth: New Perth Museum Exhibition Spotlights Local History
A captivating new exhibition at Perth Museum delves into the world of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, with a special focus on the play’s historical connections to Perthshire and its surrounding areas. While the infamous king takes center stage, the exhibition explores the historical Macbeth, the ancient kingdom of Alba during his reign, and the backdrop of Scotland during Shakespeare’s era. This fascinating display features a diverse range of artifacts, spanning from an 11th-century sword to a young Birnam Oak sapling—a symbolic representation of the forest prophesied to play a pivotal role in Macbeth’s downfall. The exhibition also delves into the darker side of the era, examining the historical context of witchcraft and its influence on Shakespeare’s work, particularly highlighted through chilling accounts of the Perthshire witch trials. Perthshire’s Macbeth: Fact, Fiction, and Local Lore Shakespeare crafted Macbeth to resonate with the superstitions and beliefs of his patron, King James VI of Scotland and I of England. The exhibition sheds light on the king’s fascination with witchcraft, a theme deeply woven into the play’s narrative. The exhibition also reveals the harsh realities faced by those accused of witchcraft during this period, with graphic descriptions that parallel the dramatic events of “the Scottish play.” The names of numerous local victims of the witch trials are displayed, serving as a poignant reminder of the era’s dark history. Exhibitions officer David Freeburn emphasizes the significance of Perth Museum as the ideal setting for this exhibition, given the region’s deep roots in the Macbeth story. He notes, “We are committed to showcasing stories with both global and local significance,” highlighting the exhibition’s focus on connecting the Macbeth narrative to Perthshire’s unique historical context. A Journey Through Perthshire’s Macbeth Country Further enriching the visitor experience, a detailed map within the exhibition marks key locations across Perthshire linked to the Macbeth story. These sites include Dunkeld Cathedral, depicted as Duncan’s seat of power in the play, and the iconic Birnam Oak, believed to be a surviving remnant of Birnam Wood. The map extends beyond these well-known landmarks to include Moot Hill at Scone, a historic site for royal coronations dating back to Pictish times. It also features other locations with Macbeth connections, such as Dunsinane Hill, Glamis Castle, and Loch Leven Priory, inviting visitors to explore the region’s rich heritage and uncover the real-life inspirations behind Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy. Beyond the local history, the exhibition also pays homage to some of the most renowned actors who have portrayed Macbeth, showcasing memorabilia and costumes from various productions, including the 2015 film starring Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard. A rare first edition of Shakespeare’s First Folio, on loan from the National Library of Scotland, stands as a centerpiece of the exhibition, adding to its literary and historical value. The Macbeth exhibition runs from April 25th to August 31st. Tickets are available for purchase directly at the museum or can be pre-booked through Perthshire Box Office. While the Macbeth exhibition requires a ticket, access to the museum’s permanent collections, including the Stone of Destiny exhibit, remains free of charge. Perth Museum is open daily from 10 am, offering a welcoming and accessible experience for all.
Kinloch Rannoch Man Sentenced in Tragic Death of Aunt
A Kinloch Rannoch man has been sentenced following the tragic accidental death of his aunt in 2022. Andrew Dewar-McCabe, 62, received a community sentence at Forfar Sheriff Court after being found guilty of causing the death of 69-year-old Jacqueline Gadd by careless driving. The incident occurred in June 2022 near Bunrannoch House, Perthshire, when Ms. Gadd was struck by a Mitsubishi pick-up truck driven by Dewar-McCabe. The vehicle, laden with tools and hay bale wrapping materials, was reversing onto the C450 road at the time of the collision. Ms. Gadd became trapped beneath the truck and sustained fatal injuries. Tragic Accident Underscores Driving Safety The court heard that Dewar-McCabe, a former equestrian instructor at Sandhurst, failed to ensure adequate visibility while reversing and did not have a guide assisting him during the maneuver. This tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of safe driving practices, particularly when operating large vehicles in rural Perthshire areas like Kinloch Rannoch. Residents are urged to exercise caution and adhere to traffic laws, especially in areas with limited visibility or pedestrian activity. A post-mortem examination later confirmed that Ms. Gadd died from blunt force trauma resulting from the impact. Described by her son as a “loving, happy, positive and selfless lady,” her death has left a significant void in the lives of her family and the wider community. Community Remembers Jacqueline Gadd Ms. Gadd, a much-loved mother and grandmother, is remembered fondly by locals in Kinloch Rannoch and surrounding areas. Community members have expressed their condolences and support for the family during this difficult time. The local church held a memorial service in her honor, showcasing the impact she had on those who knew her. The incident has prompted discussions within the community about improving road safety measures in the area around Bunrannoch House. Dewar-McCabe’s defense attorney emphasized his client’s deep remorse and previous good driving record, portraying the event as a momentary lapse in judgment with devastating consequences. Sheriff Jillian Martin-Brown acknowledged Dewar-McCabe’s remorse and military service, along with the fact that his driving fell short of dangerous driving, as he was reversing at low speed. She stated that this was a “tragic accident which led to the death of your aunt”, acknowledging the profound impact Ms. Gadd’s death has had on her family and on Dewar-McCabe himself, describing it as “the worst day of your life”. The Sheriff imposed an 18-month driving ban on Dewar-McCabe, mandated 150 hours of unpaid work within the next year, and stipulated that he must pass an extended driving test before regaining his driving privileges. The Sheriff highlighted the Scottish Sentencing Council’s guidelines, which emphasize proportionate sentencing. She determined that a custodial sentence was not warranted in this case, opting instead for a community-based punishment. This incident has deeply affected the Kinloch Rannoch community, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and adherence to road safety guidelines to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The local council is reviewing traffic management in the area, and residents have been encouraged to participate in upcoming community meetings to discuss potential improvements to road safety measures. This proactive approach reflects the community’s commitment to preventing future accidents and ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors to Kinloch Rannoch.
Unique Crieff Church Conversion Offers Stylish Living
A stunning two-bedroom apartment within a converted 18th-century church has come on the market in Crieff, offering a blend of historic charm and modern convenience. Located on Heathcote Road, the property is part of an exclusive development completed in 2007, retaining many original features from its days as a place of worship. This unique home presents a rare opportunity for prospective buyers in Perth and Kinross. The spacious kitchen and dining area are a highlight, seamlessly integrating modern appliances with the grandeur of the original arched church windows. These windows frame picturesque views, bringing the beauty of the surrounding Perthshire countryside into the heart of the home. Historic Charm Meets Modern Comfort The apartment is thoughtfully laid out over two levels. Downstairs, two generously sized bedrooms provide ample space, complemented by a family bathroom and a principal en suite. The bathroom is a true statement piece, featuring a centrally placed freestanding bathtub beneath the captivating arch of the original church windows. Imagine soaking in a warm bath while enjoying the scenic views – a perfect blend of relaxation and architectural splendor. Upstairs, the living area provides a cozy retreat and opens onto a private roof terrace, offering an ideal space for outdoor living and entertaining. Secure underground parking with an allocated space adds to the convenience of this property. A Versatile Opportunity in Crieff Currently operating as a successful holiday let, this apartment presents a dual opportunity for potential purchasers. It can be acquired as an established business venture, offering immediate income potential in the thriving short-term rental market. Alternatively, it would make a wonderful private residence, offering a unique and stylish living space in the heart of Crieff. The town, known for its vibrant community spirit and annual Drovers’ Tryst festival, offers a range of amenities, including the Strathearn Gallery and the nearby Glenturret Distillery, all within easy reach of this centrally located property. The flexibility of this property caters to various lifestyle needs, reflecting the adaptability seen in the wider Perthshire property market, which increasingly balances traditional homes with modern living requirements. The sale is being handled by Clyde Property, with offers over £225,000 being considered. This property is a testament to how historical architecture can be sensitively repurposed to create stunning modern living spaces, adding to the rich tapestry of unique properties found throughout Perth and Kinross.
Rewind Festival Assault Leaves Perthshire Lecturer Facing Potential Eye Loss
A 2023 assault at Rewind Festival has left a Perthshire university lecturer with devastating injuries, including the loss of sight in one eye and the potential for its complete removal. The 53-year-old victim, who attended the Scone Palace music festival with his family, was brutally attacked by two men following a seemingly innocuous conversation. The victim, whose right eye was already compromised due to a pre-existing condition called keratoconus, suffered severe trauma to the eye, including a major haematoma and extensive internal damage. He also endured a broken orbital bone, a broken jaw requiring a metal plate and screws, and six chipped teeth. The attack has drastically altered his life, leaving him with limited vision and reliant on a white stick for mobility. Attackers Plead Guilty, Await Sentencing The assailants, 33-year-old Patrick Kerr and 38-year-old Simon Tierney, both from Glenrothes, have pled guilty to the assault. The High Court in Dundee heard how the incident unfolded after the victim politely declined repeated offers of a chip from Tierney at a food stall. Tierney became aggressive, and when the victim tried to disengage, the attack began. Witnesses described both men punching and kicking the victim with significant force as he lay defenseless on the ground. Security personnel intervened and apprehended the two men until police arrived. At the time of their arrest, both Kerr and Tierney claimed to have been victims of an attack themselves, with Tierney alleging he was knocked unconscious and awoke to find Kerr embroiled in a fight. These claims appear to contradict witness testimonies. Long-Term Impact on Victim’s Life and Career The victim, a lecturer at the University of Highlands and Islands, now faces profound and lasting consequences from the assault. His loss of vision has severely impacted his ability to work and engage in everyday activities. The court was told the victim’s right eye was his ‘good eye’, making the attack’s impact even more severe. He currently struggles to see anything beyond three meters. The victim impact statement, which details the life-altering effects of the assault, will be considered during sentencing. The incident has raised questions about security measures and crowd control at large events such as Rewind Festival, especially considering the aggressive nature of the attack and the severity of the injuries sustained. The judge, Lord Renucci, has remanded both men in custody and deferred sentencing until next month to allow for the preparation of social work reports. They will be sentenced at the High Court in Glasgow. The victim’s injuries, coupled with the accused’s guilty pleas, suggest a significant jail term is highly likely.
Swallow Roundabout Delays Spark Outrage and Action from Local Councillor
Frustration mounts among Perth and Kinross commuters as the newly installed traffic lights at Dundee’s Swallow Roundabout continue to cause significant delays. Carse of Gowrie councillor, Angus Forbes, is escalating the issue to Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop after receiving a deluge of complaints from constituents. The alterations to the A90 junction, implemented by Springfield Properties to mitigate the impact of the Dykes of Gray housing development, have inadvertently led to extended travel times for many, with some reporting their journeys have doubled in length. Councillor Forbes Takes Action Councillor Forbes has taken the initiative to gather firsthand accounts from those affected, creating a survey to document the experiences of drivers navigating the troublesome roundabout. The survey, which closes on Friday at 5pm, aims to provide concrete evidence of the problems to the Transport Secretary. Forbes expressed his concern, stating that the post-installation traffic problems were unexpected, given the relatively smooth management of traffic flow during the construction phase itself. He emphasized the frustration of being unable to offer his constituents solutions or even clear explanations for the ongoing issues. Commuters Voice Frustration Local drivers have echoed Councillor Forbes’ concerns, sharing their stories on social media and through the survey. Many have criticized the unclear lane markings, contributing to confusion and further delays. Some commuters describe the situation as “outrageous” and an “absolute joke,” highlighting instances where dozens of vehicles could have passed through the junction had the lights not been present. The increased travel times are impacting daily routines and raising concerns about the effectiveness of the current traffic management system. Springfield Properties Responds Springfield Properties maintains it installed the traffic lights at the request of Dundee City Council, asserting that the design was reviewed and approved by the appropriate authorities, including Transport Scotland. They clarify that the council specifically asked for the signals to ensure safer pedestrian crossings and more controlled traffic flow from each approach to the roundabout. This claim points to a potential disconnect between the anticipated impact of the lights and their actual effect on traffic patterns. Looking Ahead While awaiting a response from Dundee City Council, the spotlight remains on Transport Scotland, which has indicated it will address Councillor Forbes’ letter once received. The situation underscores the challenges of balancing development with infrastructure needs, especially in areas experiencing growth, and highlights the importance of community engagement and responsive action from local officials. As Perthshire residents continue to face these travel disruptions, Councillor Forbes’ initiative offers a platform for their voices to be heard and hopefully prompts swift action towards a resolution. Historical Context and Future Planning Interestingly, in 2014, Dundee City Council predicted the signalization of the Swallow Roundabout would improve traffic flow and increase capacity for new housing developments. The current issues raise questions about the accuracy of these projections and the long-term traffic management plan for the area. As Perth and Kinross continue to expand, efficient transportation routes become increasingly vital. The Swallow Roundabout situation emphasizes the need for comprehensive traffic studies and potential alternative solutions to accommodate the growing population and minimize disruption to commuters.