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.
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.