Drivers warned over vehicle exclusion zone

Vehicles are still accessing The Square in Cumnock after it became a pedestrian zone last year.

Now councillors, Police Scotland and Ayrshire Roads Alliance have joined forces to stamp out this dangerous behaviour.

In June 2018, The Square became a pedestrian and cyclist only zone following a consultation led by the Ayrshire Roads Alliance. This new legislation was introduced to protect pedestrians and cyclists using The Square from vehicles.

Councillor Jim McMahon, local member for Cumnock and New Cumnock was joined in The Square by fellow local elected members, Cllrs Billy Crawford, Jacqui Todd and Walter Young and representatives from Police Scotland and the Ayrshire Roads Alliance ( above).

He said: “The Square in Cumnock became a pedestrian and cyclist only zone last year after serious safety concerns were raised about vehicles driving in close proximity to pedestrians. This was an accident waiting to happen and the Alliance with support from Police Scotland ensured that a new traffic order was put in place to protect our communities.

“Unfortunately, vehicles are still accessing The Square and are putting lives at risk. Even just driving into The Square is a traffic offence enforced by Police Scotland. If caught, you will get a fine and points on your licence. Parking within The Square is also restricted and our Parking Attendants will issue a Penalty Charge Notice to any vehicle breaking these rules.’

Vehicles that are part of any weddings or funerals taking place at Old Cumnock Old Church can access The Square with an appropriate permit.

Exemptions to the access restrictions include vehicles engaged in building work, road repairs, utility repairs, postal delivery, cash collection, furniture removal operations and the emergency service.

If caught you will get a fine and points