Mauchline road safety concerns spark plea from councillor

Local councillor William Lennox says he’s been made aware by constituents of several ‘near miss’ incidents involving primary school pupils and pedestrians at Mauchline Cross, where the A76 trunk road meets the B743.

Cllr Lennox, who represents the Ballochmyle ward for the SNP, says the problem is heightened by the blocking of exit routes at busy periods of the day, especially school drop-off and pick-up times.

He says he is particularly concerned at vehicles being able to legitimately park on the carriageway just a short distance from the junction.

Outlining his concerns in a letter to transport secretary Fiona Hyslop, Cllr Lennox said: “I have been made aware of several ‘near-miss’ incidents involving primary school pupils and pedestrians with vehicles at this location, which have occurred at the several controlled crossings when individuals are legitimately crossing with the green man.

“For example, the traffic queuing at the lights on High Street frequently stretches back up to Mauchline Primary School.

Councillor William Lennox (SNP, Ballochmyle) (Image: Contributed)

“More concerning is the fact that vehicles can legitimately park on the carriageway, a few metres from the junction on the opposite side, which completely blocks the road, causing mayhem in the process.

“A local coach operator I spoke to has extreme difficulties using this route several times daily for that reason, this being the primary route to and from their operations yard on Sorn Road.

“They have suggested that additional time must be allowed for the junction to clear properly before pedestrians are allowed to cross.

“This is only one example. There are many more, such as vehicles parked in the bus stop on Earl Grey Street, causing buses to stop on the carriageway; and vehicles stopped on double yellow lines on Loudoun Street, preventing the free flow of traffic.”

“It is my appeal to you to initiate and head up a much needed review of the various traffic/pedestrian aspects of this very busy junction with a view to the implementation of additional measures which will address the very real safety concerns of residents before a tragedy happens.”

A spokesperson for Transport Scotland said: “We have received correspondence and will respond in due course. Road safety is our top priority and Transport Scotland assesses the safety performance of the trunk road network on an annual basis from which areas for further investigation are identified. Interventions are then prioritised to maximise road safety outcomes.

 “The junction operation of Mauchline Cross is due to be reviewed to determine if any improvements can be made to improve traffic flow as well as availability of crossing time for pedestrians.”

Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley MSP Elena Whitham said: “I am greatly concerned to hear about the number of dangerous incidents occurring at Mauchline Cross. This is particularly worrying given that the junction is a controlled crossing and is used by school children.

Elena Whitham said she would offer any help she can in finding a resolution. (Image: Contributed)

“I welcome Cllr Lennox taking this important local matter forward and I am willing to offer any help I can.

“I look forward to hearing further updates on a possible solution.”

Jane Corrie, head of roads at the Ayrshire Roads Alliance, said: "We're aware of concerns raised about  Mauchline Cross and we;ve passed these to the A76 trunk road operator Amey within whose remit this issue rests.

"We will continue to monitor the situation and seek any updates as appropriate."

Amey has been contacted for comment.