No significant issues with roadworks, council says
POLICE have finally confirmed two road traffic accidents near to or at the ongoing road works on the A970 near the Vidlin junction, earlier this month.
On Saturday 17 January, officers received a report of a car off the road on the A970 “near Petta Water and Voe”.
Sergeant Alex Batty told Shetland News that police at the Lerwick station was informed at 3.55pm on that day.
The driver was traced and there were no reports of any injuries.
Two days later, at 5.35pm on Monday 19 January, officers received a report of a crash at the junction with the B9071, also known as the Vidlin junction.
Enquiries are ongoing regarding that incident, police said.
The two road traffic accidents come as cabling works on the A970 continue with many motorists commenting on the bright floodlights illuminating the road works but also blinding drivers.
Signs to restrict the speed to 30mph within the various sections of roadworks on the A970 have recently been erected.
Police Scotland said they would not comment on the matter of lighting as this was for the “relevant agency” to do.
Shetland Islands Council meanwhile said it was not aware of “any significant issues with signage or traffic lights”.
Roads manager Neil Hutcheson said: “We regularly inspect traffic management systems and signage of works on the public road to ensure they meet the required standard.
“We have not been aware of any significant issues with the signage or traffic lights when our staff have been on site at these current works on the A970.
“We have weekly meetings with SSEN and their principal contractor, and where appropriate we will ask them to consider where improvements can be made.”
Shetland News — free to read
Membership helps pay for journalism
If you value impartial local journalism, become a member of Shetland News and get:
- Only local ads.
- Members' weekly newsletter.
- Bookmark stories and join the comments.
Already a member? Sign in to hide this message.
