20mph speed limit on the way
Latest change in Cathkin Relief Rd project
Motorists driving on residential streets in Fernhill, Blairbeth and High Burnside will be told 20 is plenty in the coming weeks as a new speed limit comes into force.
Part of the overall Cathkin Relief Road project, the speed limit on nearby residential streets is to be reduced from 30mph to 20mph to make roads safer.
The reduction is specific to side streets and estates - such as Castlefern Road, Neilvaig Drive, and Upper Bourtree Drive - but does include main thoroughfare Fernhill Road.
It will come into force later this year, as previsously reported by the Reformer.
Frank Conway, of Manor Way Neighbourhood Watch, says the change is largely to be welcomed, but warned many residents would find it restrictive later at night when children would not be nearby.
He said: “Definitely in areas around the schools I would support it.
“Some time ago we did a get a speeding check done on Upper Bourtree Drive and during the hour in the morning and going home the speed of traffic was up, so it’s a good idea for that time of day anyway.
“It was many years ago now, but certainly the number of cars when children were going to school were increased.”
But Mr Conway added: “I didn’t see anything in the council literature to show the number of incidents that have occurred on these roads to show this is necessary.
“When we were trying to do something about the Beech Avenue and Burnside Road junction they tell us there haven’t been enough incidents at that junction to introduce changes.
“Even though they are putting this in place, they haven’t provided any figures.”
The speed reduction was advertised by South Lanarkshire Council earlier this month when it moved an order under the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.
Gordon Mackay, head of roads and transportation services at the council, said: “As part of the Cathkin Relief Road project a number of complementary works have been considered including 20mph speed limits on various residential streets in the High Burnside and Fernhill areas.
“The statutory process to promote the Traffic Regulation Order is nearing completion and we expect the signing to be in place later this financial year.
“These measures are intended to reduce vehicle speeds in residential areas and thus improve road safety.”
A copy of the traffic order is available to view at 27 Main Street, Cambuslang.