New road markings on Swallow Roundabout cause accident and multiple near misses

New road markings and, not yet operational, traffic lights on the Swallow Roundabout at Invergowrie have led to at least one accident and several near misses.

Some confused drivers within the new dedicated lanes have unwittingly been proceeding into the path of oncoming traffic.

Carse of Gowrie ward councillor Angus Forbes said he had received several complaints about the new signalling system.

It is understood the new traffic lights will be switched on next week.

As part of Springfield’s planning approval for new homes on the far side of the Swallow Roundabout from Invergowrie, improvements have been made to it. And Cllr Forbes said things had gone well until the recent installation of traffic lights and new road markings on the roundabout.

Conservative councillor Angus Forbes said: “The only real issue that has come to me is the current situation where the roundabout appears to be completed but the lights are not yet working. Drivers appear not to realise this is a roundabout and the lack of Give Way lines doesn’t really help.

“I am told that drivers on the A90 simply drive straight onto the roundabout assuming they have right of way and a few near misses have been reported to me. At least one has been reported to the police.

“I am also aware of one person trying to get to a job interview at the Landmark Hotel had to abandon her efforts and go home because she could not find a safe way to get across the traffic.

“Springfield tells me that the lights will be fully functional the week commencing March 3 so I am hopeful that the issues will be resolved then. In the meantime, I urge drivers to be extra cautious on the roundabout.”

A spokesperson for the homebuilder said temporary Give Way signs were in place.

A Springfield spokesperson said: “The Swallow Roundabout improvement works are progressing well and the programme is on track for the traffic lights to be in operation within the coming weeks.

“As they are not yet active, the traffic lights are covered indicating to road users that they are not in operation. There is also temporary give way signage located at appropriate points.”

A statement on Springfield’s website also acknowledged the building firm was “aware of concerns over the signage and road markings” but that “the improvements have been carried out in line with the designs which have been approved by roads authorities”.

The statement continues: “As such, we are unable to make alterations without instruction. We have been in discussion with the road’s authorities about these concerns.

“Once the traffic lights are in operation, a stage 3 road safety audit will include reviewing the signage and road markings. The safety audit is a process used for trunk road works and is required by the roads authorities at the end of the construction period.”