Council doubles up as lines are laid down in Wick town centre
Double yellow lines have started appearing in Wick town centre.
Workmen were seen putting them in place in Bridge Street and High Street on Tuesday morning, replacing the previous single yellow lines.
The move was implemented following months of debate surrounding traffic congestion in the town centre with vehicles, especially heavy goods lorries, having problems negotiating around cars parked there.
I hope this will encourage people to use the car parks that we have in Wick.
The civic leader, Councillor Willie Mackay, said yesterday: "I am delighted at last to see the lines getting painted.
"The whole idea was to help move traffic along and hopefully see less of the controversial congestion that has been building up on the street.
"I hope this will encourage people to use the car parks that we have in Wick. The one opposite the Norseman Hotel will be getting resurfaced soon.
"As for trader access, people will still have a 10-minute window to load and upload goods from the shops there."
Earlier this year, at a meeting in Wick Town Hall about town centre regeneration, local Highland councillors pointed out that double yellow lines would help appease concerns over pedestrian and vehicle safety, especially when cars are parked on either side of the street for long periods and serious congestion occurs.
Prior to that, councillors issued a statement which said: "We have had considerable representation made to us over past months saying that on-street parking is of great concern to local people, causing many issues for drivers and pedestrians alike... It’s important to note that when the double yellow lines are implemented there will still be a 10-minute wait time to allow for disabled access, off-loading and on-loading. People will still be able to make a quick purchase then move along. The result should be much freer and safer movement through Bridge Street and beyond."
