Speed restrictions to be imposed on A970 during wind farm construction

NEW 50mph speed limits are set to be introduced on two sections of the main A970 road during the construction of the Viking Energy wind farm.

From early March signs will warn of a 50mph zone covering less than one mile from Sandwater towards the South Nesting junction, due to new road junctions coming into use.

In the coming weeks, a section to the north of the Lang Kames, south of Voe, will also be subject to a new speed limit, where new wind farm access tracks will extend from either side of the main road.

The signs will be accompanied by flashing displays showing the actual speed of oncoming cars and a warning message if they need to slow down.

The speed limits are due to remain in place for the duration of the wind farm construction phase, which is expected to end in late 2024.

Viking Energy said the costs of the signs and works are being paid by main contractor RJ McLeod.

The changes have been given the approval of roads authority Shetland Islands Council.

Traffic lights, meanwhile, will be in operation on the main A970 road at Sandwater today (5 March) while the junction of the new Sandwater road is surfaced.

Road users may also experience occasional delays of a few minutes between Voe and the north end of the Lang Kames.