WORRIED residents in Kilbarchan are demanding action to put the brakes on speeding motorists.

Campaigners fear there could be a fatal accident as a number of drivers turn Shuttle Street into a “rat run” to avoid traffic congestion elsewhere.

Helen Kissell, 63, who has lived in the area for 31 years, told the Gazette: “I have grandchildren and a dog and don’t believe that this street is safe.

“The problem is that people want to avoid traffic at the Morrisons supermarket and Deafhillock roundabout, so they come through our village.

Villagers are being backed by local councillors Derek Bibby and Andy Doig.

Cllr Bibby said: “Speeds of 30 to 50mph which are commonplace on main Kilbarchan roads, where there are no safe crossings and several blind-spots, are hazardous to residents.

“The people of Kilbarchan have had enough and are demanding action from the police and the council.”

Cllr Doig added: “The issue in Shuttle Street has been a long-standing concern to residents and to the community council in Kilbarchan.

“It is very important from a public safety point of view that we do something to reduce speeding.

“Kilbarchan Community Council is currently engaged in a discussion with road officials from Renfrewshire Council. I would call on them to give serious consideration to every viable measure.

“This includes speed bumps, cameras and signs to make this area safe.”

Police have revealed that officers have been targeting speeding motorists in Kilbarchan, with a number of offenders already caught.

Sergeant Alan Mack said: "Local community officers are aware of the issues in the village and continue to address the problem, making it a priority whenever possible.”

Councillor Cathy McEwan, convener of Renfrewshire’s infrastructure, land and environment policy board, said the safety of pedestrians and road users is “paramount.”

She added: “The council is working with Kilbarchan Community Council and the police to address local residents’ concerns.

“We recently conducted a traffic survey of more than 3,000 vehicles on a typical weekday, focused on both directions on Barn Green and in the Shuttle Street and Wheatlands area, and an officer met with community council members to discuss the findings of that survey.

“While it found the average speed by motorists was within the speed limit, I want to state to residents that we are continuing to investigate the issue and will take all appropriate options into consideration.”