‘One-way road to

Residents and firms respond to traffic poll

CAMPAIGNERS have revealed a survey of traders and shoppers which gives a damning outlook on changes to Lochee High Street in the last 10 years.

The survey was compiled by the Save Our High Street action group after its members took umbrage at claims by local councillor Alan Ross that a number of traders and residents were happy with changes made to Lochee under the SNP administration.

That includes the creation of a new one-way system that’s been blamed for a major downturn in business.

When asked if traffic and transport changes in Lochee High Street had improved business since completion in 2014, only two said yes — while 70 said no.

The survey also asked people if they felt parking in and around Lochee High Street had improved the environment for business and residents — 68 people said no and four said yes.

When asked if they had been consulted regarding the regeneration project for Lochee High Street, 62 respondents said they had not.

And of the 10 who said they were, only four agreed to the proposals.

Sixty-six people said they would like the opportunity to discuss these issues and plans for any future changes to the community with the council and planners.

Councillor Ross says he had positive discussions last week with council officers about removing loading bays and installing parking meters in a bid to reduce the problem.

But several traders are still fearful for the High Street’s long-term future.

Barber George Mather said: “The Stack has taken off with The Range and Home Bargains but the High Street isn’t seeing that footfall.

“That’s down to the parking and the one-way system.

“The traders’ views are well-known on this. I certainly haven’t met anyone who actually supports what’s happened.

“All of the traders here said from the start exactly what would happen and it has happened.”

A new cake shop is set to open in High Street and a new takeaway — Chicken Club — also opened up recently.

Michael Grossi, from Grossi’s Dry Cleaners, said: “The new chicken shop is doing a great trade and the cake shop I’m sure will be a success, so there are good things happening — but there’s a much bigger problem underneath.

“People can’t get parked so they’re not coming.”

Mr Ross recently told the Tele that changes to the Lochee one-way system could only occur if the whole community backed it.

The SNP politician says he has taken on board the views of people from across his ward about how to improve the street’s fortunes.

He said: “I’ve had meetings with council planners about installing parking meters and removing the loading bays. That’s what’s been causing a lot of problems.

“That’s something I’ve totally agreed with the traders on.

Traffic at Lochee High Street, where the parking issues and a one-way system have been blamed for a lack of trade.