MP and Councillor Urge Travel Investment for Doune and Deanston

Stirling MP Alyn Smith has backed calls for investment in rural transport links, as local Councillor Gene Maxwell urged transport authorities to investigate improved connections between Doune and Deanston.

Currently the only link is the Bridge of Teith on the A84. Deanston residents walking or cycling to Doune to access shops and services must cross the current Bridge of Teith, which is very narrow – especially on the pavement sections.

Designated as a Category A Listed Building, expansion of the Bridge of Teith to meet modern vehicle and foot traffic requirements would be extremely unlikely. Councillor Maxwell and Mr Smith are calling on Transport Scotland, Sustrans and Stirling Council to work collaboratively with the local community to devise a workable solution – noting the data collected from recent temporary traffic lights could underpin future feasibility studies.

Trossachs and Teith SNP Ward Councillor Gene Maxwell said:

‘Rural connectivity needs to be a top priority for the Labour-run Stirling Council, and I hope their Conservative partners can also support efforts to improve active travel links between Doune and Deanston. I want to preserve our beautiful built heritage and environment, whilst also ensuring we’re making best use of our infrastructure to meet current and future transport needs. I’m grateful for Alyn’s support, and hope Transport Scotland, Stirling Council and others can begin work on exploring options for this crucial link.’

Stirling MP Alyn Smith said:

‘Doune and Deanston are vibrant communities in their own right, with deep ties. The fact their sole link is a listed bridge has been a source of frustration for many, especially with the constraints on expansion to meet foot, cycle and road traffic demands. Given this bridge carries the A84, a major trunk road servicing Stirling’s rural communities and beyond, I’m completely behind efforts to see the Bridge of Teith given the investment it requires to meet current and future demand. We want to encourage walking, cycling and wheeling as much as we can, whilst respecting the reality of car requirements in a rural setting. I look forward to working closely with Councillor Maxwell and others on this exciting campaign.’

Notes:

Pictured is Trossachs and Teith Councillor Gene Maxwell alongside Stirling MP Alyn Smith