This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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New safety measures for A90
11/01/2005
A number of measures to improve safety at the
Laurencekirk/Marykirk junction on the A90 will be
introduced, it was confirmed today.
The Executive commissioned trunk road operators BEAR
Scotland to report on possible measures that would address
current safety issues at the junction.
Transport Minister Nicol Stephen confirmed that the
Executive will take action on all the recommendations from
BEAR's report. These are:
- The installation of a safety
camera
- The introduction of a 50 mph
speed limit over a 1600 metre length of the A90 between
Oatyhill and Johnstone Lodge.
- The installation of advanced
warning signs
- The extension of the high
friction surfacing
- Renewal and relocation of the
direction signs to Marykirk to assist visibility
- Installation of verge
markers
- Renewal of lining
- The clearance of vegetation.
Mr Stephen said:
"Road safety is a top priority for the Scottish
Executive. Local people voiced their concerns about the
safety of the Laurencekirk/Marykirk junction and the
Executive asked BEAR to investigate.
"That report has made many recommendations, and
following discussions with Grampian Police and the North
East Safety Camera Partnership (Nescamp), we have decided
to take action on all of these. The key change will be the
introduction of a new 50 mph speed limit, with a safety
camera to enforce it.
"Safety measures will be introduced as soon as possible
at this junction. We will ask Nescamp to proceed with the
installation of the fixed safety camera and the Executive
will install advanced warning signs, verge markers and the
other minor improvements identified. In addition we are
immediately starting the procedures to reduce the speed
limit to 50 mph between Oatyhill and Johnstone Lodge.
"The additional measures will reduce speeds and make
motorists more aware of the need for safety. I believe
these short term measures will be welcomed by local
people. I have also given a commitment to look at the
longer term solution of a grade separated junction. This
will be given a high priority, but clearly will take time.
These immediate measures are aimed at substantially
reducing the risk of further serious accidents at this
junction."