Parking is a real headache
Request to Network Rail over land
Land next to Bridge of Allan railway station, currently accommodating plant for rail electrification works, could be converted to parking spaces.
The suggestion has been made by Councillor Douglas Dodds as one way of alleviating congestion in the town’s Station Road and Cawder Road.
Councillor Dodds told Bridge of Allan Community Council’s meeting last week the number of parked vehicles on nearby Cawder Road during working hours was an ongoing issue and residents had contacted him to complain.
He said: “Both sides of Cawder Road are full of vehicles. They are parked there all day, nose to tail, on both sides of the road. It’s so bad that the C48 (Bannockburn to Dunblane) bus has had problems getting round the corner. It’s causing a lot of inconvenience to people who live there.”
Residents on nearby Station Road are also unhappy about the number of commuters using their street to park their cars during working hours when the station car park is full.
Last November Station Road residents Billy and Denise Forsyth were trapped in their home for most of the day when a motorist parked a car in front of their driveway.
Councillor Dodds said this week that the land to the south of the car park could be used for more parking spaces.
He said: “The roads around Bridge of Allan station are as bad as ever.
“Congestion in the area during the week is huge problem.
“I’m suggesting to Network Rail that the land they are using as a yard by the station during electrification works be handed over to create more parking spaces. They are badly needed.
“It would go some way to improving the situation.”
Stirling Council said this week they are aware of the parking problems experienced in the area around Bridge of Allan station and are hopeful that they can be addressed.
A spokesperson said: “We recognise the importance of parking to local communities and we are currently developing a new parking strategy framework.
“We are planning to consult with residents on the introduction of alternative parking restrictions in Cawder Road with work ongoing to address the issues on Station Road.
“In working with the local community we are confident we will resolve the issues currently being experienced.”
Network Rail were asked to comment on councillor Dodds’ suggestion, but did not respond before our deadline.
Congestion in the area during the week is a huge problem