Gridlock as lorries flout 53-mile diversion route

Lorries and buses unable to pass along the A9 northbound between Kinbuck and Greenloaning ignored a lengthy diversions and instead navigated through the village, including over the category B-listed Kinbuck Bridge

- CHRIS MARZELLA

Residents in a small village near Dunblane have reported 'chaotic scenes' this week as lorries flouted a 53-mile diversion and blocked a historic 273-year-old bridge.

Villagers in Kinbuck, three miles north of Dunblane, described a “nightmare” as lorries and buses unable to pass along the A9 northbound between Kinbuck and Greenloaning due to road safety improvements, ignored a lengthy diversions and instead navigated through the village, including over the category B-listed Kinbuck Bridge.

The A9 works were carried out on a 12-mile stretch by Amey, acting on behalf of Transport Scotland, to enhance safety.

The £45,000 improvement scheme includes relining and stud renewals, enhancing line visibility for over 29,450 daily commuters.

To ensure the safety of both roadworkers and drivers, the works were carried out overnight between 7.30pm and 6.30am from Monday until Thursdsay - meaning HGVs and buses using the route had to follow the extensive diversion.

Police were called to the village on two occasions to assist drivers unable to cross Kinbuck Bridge.