Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop faces scrutiny over lack of meetings on road safety
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The A90 Toll of Birness junction, located north of Ellon, has become a focal point for public concern regarding road safety. Despite increasing calls from the community and local officials, Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop has yet to meet with government roads agency Transport Scotland to address the alarming safety issues at this notorious accident blackspot.
Community outcry and petitions for change
In recent months, more than 800 residents have signed a petition advocating for the construction of a roundabout at the A90/A952 junction. This initiative, spearheaded by a concerned citizen, highlights a disturbing trend of accidents that have plagued the area.
The petitioner noted that accidents have become alarmingly frequent, resulting in injuries to numerous individuals. They argue that implementing a roundabout could significantly mitigate the ongoing safety issues.
Government response and safety assessments
Despite the community’s concerns, Hyslop revealed that the Toll of Birness junction was not identified as a priority site for further investigation in Transport Scotland’s annual road safety assessment. This decision has drawn criticism from local representatives, including north-east Tory MSP Douglas Lumsden, who labeled the lack of meetings a “disgrace.” He accused the Scottish Government of neglecting communities that rely on the A90 for safe travel.
Recent accidents raise alarm
Statistics reveal a troubling pattern of serious accidents at the junction. Hyslop confirmed that there have been three serious accidents in the past five years, with several incidents reported this year alone. Tragically, a recent accident involving a bus and a local man, Andrew Jackson, resulted in a fatality, further underscoring the urgent need for safety improvements. Firefighters were also dispatched to multiple accidents in the vicinity, raising further concerns about the junction’s safety.
Financial implications and future investigations
In response to the growing safety concerns, it has been agreed that Transport Scotland’s operating company, Amey, will conduct an investigation into the junction at a cost of £10,000. This investigation aims to assess the safety measures currently in place and explore potential improvements. Hyslop noted that over £27.8 million was allocated for A90 maintenance in the 2024-25 budget, but the lack of specific attention to the Toll of Birness junction has left many community members feeling overlooked.
As discussions continue, the community remains hopeful that their voices will be heard and that necessary actions will be taken to enhance safety at this critical junction. The call for a roundabout and other safety measures reflects a broader demand for accountability and responsiveness from government officials regarding road safety issues that directly impact the lives of local residents.
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