Plea to make roads safer after cyclist dies

A CALL has been made to make roads safer after a cyclist tragically died after being hit by a HGV.

Residents in Bearden have called for East Dunbartonshire Council to commit ‘ to making streets and roads safer’ following the horror crash on Tuesday.

The incident took place on Manse Road just after the junction with Drymen Road shortly after 8am.

Emergency crews rushed to the scene, however, a 56- year- old woman, who was the cyclist, was sadly pronounced dead.

The heavy goods vehicle driver, who was a man, was not injured.

Cops have since launched an investigation into the incident.

However, following it, locals have raised concerns over several “serious road traffic accidents” in the town.

The petition claims there is only one traffic safety measure on Manse Road – a flashing warning sign signalling motors going too fast – which is “covered by hedges and has been out of operation for the last two years due to a dead battery”.

Meanwhile, it also says “the barriers at the Cross” in the area “are another reminder of dangerous driving and poor traffic management”.

Now, the petition is urging the local authority to take action and commit to make streets and roads safe in the area.

The petition says: “In the span of 10 days there have been three serious traffic accidents in

Bearsden involving pedestrians or cyclists being knocked down.”

It continued: “Parents and residents have repeatedly called on the council to take action, but to date the response has been dismissive and inadequate.

“We pay our council taxes expecting better than this for our community but at the moment, our council’s inaction is simply a dereliction of duty.

“We urge East Dunbartonshire Council to take action and fully commit to making our streets and roads safer. Do not let there be any more needless injuries or deaths on your watch.”

Meanwhile, following the horror crash earlier this week, police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

Sergeant Chris Hoggans, of Police Scotland’s Road Policing Unit, said: “My thoughts are with the families and friends of the deceased at this difficult time.

“I would urge anyone who may have been in the area around the time of the crash and witnessed what took place, or has any dashcam footage which could assist, to please get in touch.”

A spokesperson for Police Scotland added: “Anyone with information is urged to contact Police Scotland on 101.”

Ann Davie, chief executive at East Dunbartonshire Council, said: “We will continue to liaise with Police Scotland and assist as required.”

To view the petition, visit www. change. org/ p/ immediate- actiontoimprove- traffic- safety- inbearsden