Twenty-month wait – and counting – for 20-metre pavement repairs

In August 2024, a spokesperson for BEAR Scotland said permanent repairs were scheduled for October/November.

However, this week, not long after temporary traffic lights were erected at the location, reducing the road to a single-lane of traffic to allow for the pedestrian diversion, the company revealed there has been a further delay.

A spokesperson said: “We understand the delays to the footway works on Millknowe Road have given locals cause for concern and appreciate the patience of those in the area throughout this time.

“As the footway is located on top of several utility services, including a gas main, the appropriate safety precautions are paramount. An investigation has been ongoing, to measure the depth of all the services and ensure the area is safe to proceed with the necessary works.

“In October 2024, we carried out a topographical and ground penetrating radar (GPR) survey, allowing us to determine the position and depths of most of the services within the footway. 

“The GPR survey verified the presence of a gas main in the footway but could not accurately determine the depth or position, therefore, further trial hole investigations were required. A specialist contractor equipped with a hydro-excavator completed these trial holes in January 2025.  

“Now that the location of the gas main has been identified and measured, our routine maintenance team has been able to complete the design and is working with a sub-contractor to progress with the works, which are currently programmed to commence in May.”

South Kintyre councillor Tommy Macpherson, who has been in regular correspondence with BEAR Scotland and Transport Scotland about the Millknowe works, recently escalated the matter to the Scottish Government due to the continued delays.

Speaking this week, he said: “Pavements must be fit for purpose and able to be used safely by all pedestrians, including older people and disabled people which includes wheelchair or mobility scooter users, visually impaired people, and people with pushchairs and toddlers. We must not forget dismounted cyclists.

“For a 20-metre stretch of pavement, I have 20 months of correspondence stretching back to October 2023. Campbeltonians have long tired of the chicane of collapsed barriers and misplaced cones. What were Transport Scotland waiting on, an accident, a fatality?

“The Scottish Government has appointed an investigating officer to prepare a comprehensive report highlighting what has gone wrong with recommendations for improvements.

“Pedestrian and road-user safety is paramount. With an appropriate safe walkway, barriers, and traffic management now in place, this must not detract nor delay the remedial pavement works.”

The BEAR Scotland spokesperson added: “We acknowledge that some time has passed since the issue was initially brought to our attention and thank the public for understanding the safety measures that were crucial at this location.

“As an interim measure, we have created a temporary walkway and appreciate the public’s co-operation as we continue to focus on this activity.”