Frustration over four-year wait to get Strachur street lights fixed

Cowal Councillor Gordon Blair said: “I know that the bus shelter is getting repaired today. It has taken that length of time, and that is very disappointing, but this is why we go through the area committee and business days.

“We do it to have better engagement with officers on issues that are so important to our communities. We are also going to do a business day in Cowal for the villages outwith the central area.

“We have recognised the fact that we are not responding as quickly as we should. Two years to get something fixed is not appropriate in any local authority.

“These are the steps we are taking to speed things up, and if we have good communication with community councils, everybody will know what is going on.”

Councillor William Sinclair, Cowal, added: “I understand Ms Reid’s frustration, and the Strachur community’s frustration. I think officers need to pick up the phone and speak to us, rather than sending emails via member services, which does not help.”

An Argyll and Bute Council spokesperson said: “It is unfortunate that the councillor [Sinclair] feels that way but here is the updated position on the lights at Strachur Primary School and the village bus shelter.

“Despite many attempts to repair the school warning lights on the A815, it hasn’t been possible and recent quotes to replace have been around £30,000. These lights warn of a school crossing patrol which is no longer in place.

“Options for a long-term solution include countdown signs, rumble strips and potential road narrowing nibs. We’ll need to measure the site and draw up a design.

“Ultimately this will be a better and more cost effective solution and will enhance safety for everyone crossing at this location.

“Strachur bus stop was scheduled for repair this week as part of a package works. It will be finished by the middle of next week at the latest.

“The planned works had been delayed to accommodate discussions with another community council about where bus stops were located in different part of Cowal.”