Amey ‘committed’ to completing A96 repair work in Keith ‘as quickly as possible’ amid ongoing Moray landslide concerns
A road operator says it is in the “final stages” of confirming a design solution for a bridge which was damaged by a landslide earlier this year and has submitted a planning application to Moray Council.
Temporary traffic lights, installed by Amey, have been in place at Union Bridge in Keith since July.
Concerns have been raised about the safety measure and the long tailbacks it is currently causing through the town.
But Amey says it has done everything it can to “expedite matters” amid these ongoing concerns.
A spokesperson for Amey told The Northern Scot: “Amey have carried out a significant amount of work thus far and are in the final stages of confirming a design solution which will then allow us to commence on site at the earliest opportunity.
“To expedite matters, I can confirm that we had some initial discussions with Moray Council in advance to make them aware of our intentions to submit the requisite applications for planning permission and listed building consent.
“We had already applied for listed building consent and submitted our application for planning permission on 26/09/2024.”
Last month, United Keith chairperson Linda Gorn hosted an urgent meeting with business owners, community council members and other interested parties.
She said that many businesses are losing out on passing trade with traffic lights deterring people from stopping.
She added that some of these businesses will not survive the winter if Amey does not accelerate its work to fix the bridge.
United Keith posted a Facebook update on Sunday, October 6, following news of planning applications being submitted.
The update said: “The planning applications are in, one for the listed and one for planning of the works on the embankment. Hopefully both will be fast tracked.”
It added: “We have also asked for slow down signs at the lights which Amey are considering. Other updates will be posted as we get them.
“Businesses are losing money big time because potential customers are not stopping to shop.
“Please support local where and when you can to keep local businesses open.”
Amey maintains it is committed to completing the work “as quickly as possible” and met with a group of elected representatives, community council members and local businesses owners recently to discuss the concerns of the community.
A spokesperson for the road operator added: “Amey recognises the ongoing impact that the current situation is having on the local community and businesses in Keith.
“In recognition of the growing frustrations expressed by the local community and businesses in Keith, Amey staff met with a group of elected members, including representatives of MSP/MPs, Keith Community Council and the local traders association to explain the complexities of the work that requires to be carried out and provide reassurance that we are committed to completing this as quickly as possible.”
