Changes to rat-run roundabout demanded over safety concerns
Dismayed locals have warned that the intersection which links Polwarth Gardens, Polwarth Terrace and Granville Terrace is “awful and risky” for pedestrians and cyclists.
A local community council has echoed their safety fears over speeding, high volumes of traffic, “outdated” crossings and streets in the area “plagued” by goods vehicles.
Locals have voiced their concerns for several years and even petitioned about the dangers they face when taking kids to nearby schools. Now the Chair of Merchiston Community Council is writing to council chiefs pressing them to carry out critical improvements to make the junction safe. It comes after locals complained to the council last week about a temporary diversion which directed cars into oncoming traffic down a street with a one-way section.
Roadworks saw Polwarth Crescent closed with drivers diverted via Merchiston Avenue, including a one-way section. Locals witnessed pedestrians in near misses with cars having to “jump out of the way”.
The community council said speeding vehicles are “a worry” along Polwarth Gardens and Merchiston Avenue, which are regularly used by primary and secondary school children and college students.
Local parent and resident Vanessa Meadu said: “The Polwarth roundabout is risky and frightening to cross, especially with children. Cars come from every direction and rarely slow down, even when people have started crossing. I urge Edinburgh council to put community safety first and put simple measures in place that can make a huge difference for walkers, cyclists and even drivers.”
Another local parent said: “Pedestrian crossings everywhere near there are a terrifying mess and I am so stressed out every time I have to go near there with my three- and six-year-olds.”
Ian Doig, chair of Merchiston Community Council said: “Go there any rush hour morning or evening and see how dangerous the driving is and how risky it is to cross the road. Parents with buggies, wheelchair users and cyclists are especially vulnerable.”
City of Edinburgh Council has been contacted for comment.