CONCERNS have been raised over the safety of a new cycle lane and zebra crossing installed on a busy Johnstone road.

Councillor John Hood told how he was contacted by a number of motorists who have complained about the markings recently placed on Beith Road.

The Johnstone South and Elderslie representative believes a serious accident could happen unless modifications to the cycle lane and zebra crossing are made as a matter of urgency.

“The main complaints I’ve been receiving are that the new layout is very confusing and the cycle track has taken up a lot of space in the road,” he told The Gazette.

“Folk actually thought it was a bus lane, it is that big. They’ve had to put cones in the middle of the road just to show people where to go. It’s just a nonsense.

“There used to be a hatched area at the bottom of Quarrelton Road where you could wait to turn around but that has been taken away now, so when the schools are coming out, there’s not a clear flow of traffic and the road gets backed up.”

Councillor Hood also believes one of the new zebra crossings on Beith Road, positioned near the brow of a hill at the junction with Rannoch Road, has been installed in a dangerous location for pedestrians.

He said: “We’ve had so many accidents down there that a speed camera was put in place but cars still go very fast on that part of the road.

“A driver could be heading over the brow of the hill at a fast speed and not see someone on the crossing until the last second.

“As far as I’m concerned, it’s an accident waiting to happen and there was no consultation with anybody regarding this.”

Renfrewshire Council said the cycle lane in Beith Road was part of the trial cycle route from Howwood to Paisley, funded by Sustrans Scotland, with work continuing to complete both ends.

A spokesperson added: “Cones and signs were erected to make drivers aware of the new lane but we appreciate it will take time for drivers to get used to the new layout and we will monitor this to ensure it remains safe.

“Work is ongoing to replace some pedestrian crossing islands with zebra crossings and these will be monitored, as the safety of all road users is paramount.

“Engagement on the Howwood to Paisley route took place in advance of any work starting and sought feedback from elected members, community councils, Local Partnerships and the local community, with all comments received taken on board as part of the trial.”