Roadworks have continued to cause confusion across the Helensburgh and lochside area, with unscheduled closures yesterday.
Argyll and Bute Council announced after 5pm on Wednesday that the B872 through Garelochhead would be closed for the next three weekdays – with both bus companies which operate locally immediately complaining that they had been given no information.
With ongoing roadworks in Rhu and the A817 Haul Road and Peaton Hill both being resurfaced, conditions became chaotic when the A82 was closed by a fatal road accident, with severe delays on several roads in the area.
Businesses in Garelochhead have been frustrated by a lack of consultation and communication from the council – Fergus Madigan of the Perch Café said he only heard about the work on Saturday and has only been able to open one day this week.
“The business is heavily reliant on on-street parking and vehicle access through Garelochhead and financially this has been devastating,” he added.
“We are in our first year of operation and whilst we doing well , bills , finance repayments etc need to made every week and I have three staff that need to be paid.
“I will be pursuing the council for some reimbursement to cover my bills and a full and frank apology to all businesses and residents affected and some sort of framework to ensure this never ever happens in such a manner again.”
He said that Department of Transport legislation stated that for planned major works a notice period was needed.
A council spokesperson repeated apologies from earlier in the week and said access to homes and businesses would be possible throughout the three days of work, while the road would be open on Saturday and Sunday.
“Traffic management workers at either end of the works are on hand to advise motorists on access,” he added.
“We had initially hoped to be able to carry out these scheduled works without the need to close the road, however it has become apparent that a closure is necessary to guarantee the safety of road workers on the narrowest parts of the B872.
“These works will greatly improve the road surface for the longer-term benefit of residents, businesses and visitors to Garelochhead. An alternative route is available via the A814 bypass.”
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