St Andrews Timber & Building Supplies has extended the opening hours of its Stenhouse branch in Edinburgh to assist customers affected by ongoing roadworks on Gorgie Road.

The company is now opening at 07:00 and offering complimentary coffee and bacon rolls to customers arriving before 11:00, with no purchase necessary.

The disruption stems from pipe upgrade works by Scottish Gas Networks (SGN) on Gorgie Road, near its junction with Stenhouse Drive. SGN commenced work earlier this month, anticipating approximately 10 weeks for completion. Temporary traffic lights have been installed, leading to lengthy tailbacks, particularly during morning peak hours, making access to the builders' merchants on Stenhouse Mill Lane challenging.

Tam Whitehead, Stenhouse branch manager, stated: "When we heard about the work which was planned by SGN, we knew it was going to cause some access issues for our customers. That has proved to be the case since it started in early June but we're doing what we can to help the situation. By opening at 07:00 while the work is in progress, we're hoping it helps the customers beat the traffic and there are bacon rolls and cups of coffee for those who can make it in before 11 o'clock. Anyone popping in during that time will get vouchers from us for a breakfast roll and coffee at the Sitooterie café at Stenhouse Cross."


In addition to the extended hours and breakfast offer, St Andrews is also running an increased delivery service, utilising its fleet from other branches, to provide an alternative for customers wishing to avoid the affected area. Customers can arrange deliveries by calling 0131 510 7778.

SGN began their work on 2 June, with temporary traffic lights in operation from the week commencing 9 June for eight weeks. Stenhouse Drive has been closed for the duration of the project, with local diversion routes in place for motorists. There is also no left-hand turn onto Gorgie Road from Els House. SGN advised motorists to plan ahead and allow extra time for journeys, particularly during peak travel times. The company stated the upgrades are necessary to prevent future emergency work and disruption in an area that has experienced multiple gas leaks in recent years.

The Stenhouse branch of St Andrews Timber & Building Supplies first opened in 2016 and underwent significant modifications last year, linking two previously separate warehouses to expand stock options.