Confusing road markings at Fochabers roundabout to be replaced
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CONFUSING road markings at roundabout in Fochabers are set to be replaced.
The markings at the A96/A98 roundabout to the east of the town will be altered this week, with works expected to begin on Thursday evening. Work will be completed over two nights.
The move comes after complaints from members of the public regarding problems at the roundabout.
On the A98 approach from Buckie, there are no markings but cars must stay left to take what is technically the second turn off – due to a small road on the left – and head for Keith, or take the right lane for Fochabers or the A96.
However, there have been reports of cars coming from the Keith direction believing that all vehicles in the right-hand (inside) lane are heading for the A96 and pulling out – when those cars were heading into Fochabers.
On approach from the Keith side, both lanes can be followed to stick on the A96, with the right to be taken for the A98 towards Buckie. The left turn into Fochabers is unmarked.
From the Elgin side, both lanes can be used to stick to the A96 and the left turn onto the A98 is indicated.
BEAR Scotland undertook a review in consultation with Moray Council and have come up with a new road marking layout.
On completion of the works, BEAR Scotland will continue to monitor movements at the roundabout to ensure the new layout is working as expected.
While work will take place overnight, lane closures will be in place when required, along with a 30mph speed restriction.
Ian Stewart, BEAR Scotland’s North East Representative, said: “We are pleased to see this road markings update get under way on the A96 east of Fochabers.
"This investment from Transport Scotland should alleviate any road user concerns with regards to the roundabout and has the support of relevant Moray Council services in making this change.
“The traffic management is essential to keep the workforce and road users safe during this project.
"We have planned works to take place overnight and have arranged for the traffic management to be removed when work is not being carried out to ensure minimum disruption to road users.
“We would like to thank motorists in advance for their patience during this project and advise them to plan ahead by checking Traffic Scotland for up to date journey information and leave some extra time to reach their destination.”
Real-time journey planning information can be obtained by visiting www.trafficscotland.org or the new mobile site my.trafficscotland.org.
