Castletown accident at new traffic calming site could have been 'much more serious'
An accident at a new traffic calming site in Castletown could have been "much more serious" if pedestrians had been on the pavement.
That was the claim made at a meeting of the local community council when it was reported that the crash occurred shortly after the break-out scheme to slow down motorists was installed adjacent to the play park on Main Street.
It was stated that a vehicle failed to give way and another had to brake to let it through, skidded and collided with a wall. There was snow on the ground at the time of the accident.
Community councillors said it was unfortunate the incident happened but stressed it could have been worse if a pedestrian had been on the pavement when the car driver lost control.
Highland Council was informed and agreed to look at the site and put temporary signs up at the area. Road markings are to be installed when the weather gets better, it was stated.
Community council chairman Billy Dunbar said the road markings are part of the project and should have been done when the break-out scheme was installed.
"It should have been done at the same time," he said. Mr Dunbar added it was the first accident he was aware of in that part of the village in 45 years.
Thurso and Northwest Caithness Highland councillor Ron Gunn, who was at last Thursday night's meeting, said he contacted the roads department following the accident.
"If a pedestrian or a lorry had been there when the car skidded it could have been much more serious. The council said it would see what it could do to help," said Mr Gunn.
He also asked if the 30mph sign on the Castletown to Dunnet road could be repositioned further back to deter speeders. It was felt that with the renovations to the nearby old mill that possibility should be investigated.
Mr Gunn was told there would need to be a consultation carried out before the sign could be relocated.