CRAIG Hoy, a Conservative MSP for South Scotland, and Donna Collins, a Conservative Councillor for Dunbar and East Linton, have raised concerns about emergency service vehicle access into Oldhamstocks and Innerwick after the temporary closure of the A1 last week.
The Conservative duo have called for a meeting between BEAR Scotland, East Lothian Council, Police Scotland, Transport Scotland and emergency services in future to ensure that B roads near Oldhamstocks and Innerwick are not blocked to emergency services as a result of high volumes of traffic being diverted on to rural roads when the A1 is closed.
The A1 closure last week was criticised as one side of the road did not need to be closed and could have been used to funnel traffic in both directions instead of diverting traffic through rural B roads connecting on to Oldhamstocks and Innerwick.
Craig Hoy MSP said: “The scenes from last week of large Heavy Goods Vehicles blocking up B roads near Oldhamstocks and Innerwick were very concerning.
“It is absolutely crucial that any pre-planned road closures on the A1 take place at non-peak times and that there is contingency planning in place to make ensure that emergency services can access Oldhamstocks, Innerwick and surrounding communities at all times.”
Cllr Donna Collins said: “It is Vital that our rural roads are accessable to emergency services at all times.
"We have a large population up here which grows in peak season to several thousand with visitors to Thurston Manor Caravan Park.
"As farming is one of the most dangerous occupations. We need clear access not only for emergency services for farmers if injured or there is a fire, but also for animal welfare issues and veterinary care.
"Blockages that cause delays that could be over an hour for a fire engine or ambulance to get to an emergency are unacceptable."
