Town's new travel plans

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The Courier has obtained a draft of the plan drawn up by private consultants after two years of discussions.

And on Monday a special meeting has been called to consider its recommendations.

Traffic problems in the High Street and West Port are central to the study.

Dunbar/East Linton councillor Paul McLennan said: “There’s been a few near misses at the roundabout at West Port at its important that we reduce the risk of accidents there.”

To improve pedestrian safety the study recommends the removal of the mini roundabout at the junction of West Port and High Street, to be replaced by traffic lights and a pedestrian crossing, at an estimated cost of £150,000.

It is also suggestion that pelican crossings be installed at the north and south end of High Street to help the disabled.

Councillor Norman Hampshire noted that the town’s burgeoning population was heaping pressure on parking spaces at the primary school – which he regarded as another priority for action.

He said: “Dunbar has expanded in the last few years and there are areas in the town centre that are struggling – especially the primary school.

“There are things that can be done to curb the problem without a lot of expense. Attention by police officers and traffic wardens would prevent people parking illegally.”

He added that the car park at Hallhill could be resurfaced – with a £25,000 contribution from Asda – to provide additional parking for parents with children at the school.

But councillor Jacquie Bell noted that traffic problems around Belhaven brewery were conspicuous by their absence.

“I was very surprised that the area around the brewery was not included in plans. It is something that so many people are coming to me with problems about.

“Brewery Lane is a narrow street to have large articulated lorries coming down it.

“But it is made even worse with people parking on either side.”

Councillor Hampshire said that as a major employer in the area it was imperative that the council protect it.

“If there was a serious impact on the brewery as a result of traffic implementations there is nothing to stop them packing up and going somewhere else.

“The brewery have looked at opening other entrances but all of the surrounding area is residential.”