In an effort to increase road safety, work is soon to commence on a new state-of-the-art £1 million bridge at Kilmarnock's Dean Ford.

The new bridge will incorporate a carriageway, a pedestrian footway and even a fish pass to allow for migration.

Due to start in January 2012, a six-month contract duration has been allowed, so works should be completed by summer 2012.

Depute Leader of the Council, Councillor Iain Linton, said: "Dean Ford floods on a regular basis and motorists are often caught out trying to cross. It can be very dangerous due to the strength of the river flow, which can sweep a car away.

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"There was a serious incident only last week, when fire, coastguard, police and ambulance services had to be called out, when a motorist was stranded halfway across the ford in deep water.

"Diverting emergency services to rescue motorists can put other vulnerable groups at risk. This is yet another reason for getting the new bridge in place as soon as possible."

Spokesperson for Improving Community Safety, Councillor Jim Todd, said: "We consulted with members of the local community regarding the design of the bridge and the planned works.

"The Council is investing over £1m in this project – a real commitment to road safety in the area."

Head of Roads and Transportation, John Bryson, said: "The new Dean Road Bridge will comprise of four spans of pre-cast concrete box culvert and associated retaining walls with a 7.3m wide carriageway and two 2.5m wide footways. This will accommodate all vehicles and pedestrians using Dean Road and allow them to cross the Kilmarnock Water safely.

"Traffic calming measures comprising road humps and associated signing and lining are also being proposed for Dean Road and, subject to approval, works will be carried out under the main bridge construction project."

(JG/CD)