Final phase of new cycle route
Published Thursday, 05 July 2012
THE final phase of work to complete a national cycle route linking Hamilton to Larkhall and beyond is about begin.
The new route is part of Sustrans' national project to extend the National Cycle Network into the heart of communities, funded by the Big Lottery Fund.
The project will introduce a walking and cycling route from the north end of Bothwell Road in Hamilton, along the River Clyde and the Avon Water up to Chatelherault Park and onto Larkhall, making it much easier to make everyday journeys on foot and by bike.
To complete the National Cycle Route 74 major carriageway resurfacing works are to take place on Carlisle Road between Ferniegair and Larkhall.
They will begin on Monday, July 17 and run for approximately eight weeks, specifically along the stretch of Carlisle Road (A72 and B7078) between Chatelherault Park and Merryton Roundabout at the entrance to Larkhall.
The works will comprise new kerbing, widened footways with new surfacing to accommodate cyclists and complete carriageway resurfacing.
For most of the project, traffic will be managed by temporary traffic signals. However, it is necessary to completely close the road for the carriageway resurfacing element of the works.
This will be done under two separate road closures, firstly from Chatelherault to Lanark Road End and then from Lanark Road End to Merryton. Each closure will last for around a week.
Diversion routes will be in place during the closure periods. The council will liaise with those residents and businesses located within the closure to discuss arrangements.
Large electronic message signs will also be used to advise motorists in advance of the closure dates.
Chair of South Lanarkshire Council's Enterprise Resources Committee, Councillor Chris Thompson, said: "We apologise in advance for any inconvenience these works may cause.
"We have programmed them to start during the school summer holiday period when traffic flows are reduced.
"Additional roadworkers, extended working days and weekend working will also be used to ensure these works are completed as quickly and efficiently as possible.
"This will hopefully reduce the impact on road users, businesses and residents.
"Whilst we will make every effort to accommodate local businesses and residents, some disruption will be inevitable and we would welcome your co-operation during the works.
"We would ask that people who cannot avoid the area leave a little longer for their journeys.
"I am delighted that once these works are complete we will have a fantastic cycle route which travels through huge areas of South Lanarkshire and beyond."
