A four-week trial in Kirkintilloch, East Dunbartonshire, which was introduced at the junctions of Catherine Street, Kerr Street and Cowgate last month. The temporary phased changes aimed to give pedestrians and cyclists in the town as much priority as vehicles.

The trial enabled a number of temporary measures to be introduced, which changed how the street 'felt' to all users, by demonstrating the potential for it to become a more people-friendly space. At the junction, speed control measures were introduced and electronic notices installed; while the removal of the railings, marking out of crossing points and deactivation of traffic lights were designed to allow a greater free-flow through and across the junction by both pedestrians and vehicles. With the scheme now at an end, the junctions are to return to normal and will be monitored for a further four weeks.


Thomas Glen, Director of Development and Regeneration at the Council, explained: "The trial has now come to a planned end, but work is continuing to analyse the results – with consultation continuing until 18 September.

"I hope as many people as possible spare the time to consider the trial and give us feedback to help inform future decisions. To date there has been a mix of views expressed with many very helpful and at times critical comments received, and these will be fully considered in our assessment of the trial.

"I would like to thank everyone for their patience – pedestrians, cyclists, and users of public transport and private vehicles. The results of the trial and consultation responses will help to shape future improvement works in Cowgate and Kirkintilloch town centre. As part of the agreed Kirkintilloch Town Centre Masterplan we are committed to improving access for all road users and pedestrians – and the Catherine Street junction is a key element."

According to East Dunbartonshire Council, the scheme suggests that there was a change in the behaviours of those using the junction, but additional feedback is needed to help shape the future of traffic flow in Kirkintilloch town centre.

An online survey will be available until 18 September.

The Kirkintilloch Town Centre Masterplan aims to regenerate the area and provide a mix of business, civic, leisure, retail and tourism facilities.

The survey can be found here.

(JP/CD)