The A70 has been given a royal seal of approval after the Ayrshire Roads Alliance was presented with an award by His Royal Highness, Prince Michael of Kent for Britain’s most improved road.
The Prince Michael International Road Safety Awards are based on an annual European road safety assessment.
Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council said: “I am absolutely delighted. On many ‘A’ roads the margin for human error is very small and junctions remain the largest source of serious injury. By re-aligning, re-surfacing and re-designing sections of the A70, the team have effectively addressed the main problem areas.
“For the A70 to be named most improved road in Britain is a real honour, and is a reflection of the commitment displayed by our employees to make our roads safer.”
Between 2008 and 2013, the A70 between Cumnock and Ayr has seen a 94% reduction in the number of fatal and serious road accidents. Within East Ayrshire this was due to the introduction of a number of safety features including a review of the speed limit, mobile speed cameras and warning signs. Engineering solutions played a large part in improving road safety. Measures included road re-alignments, junction improvements, the removal of bends that were considered sub-standard and the resurfacing of large sections of the road. Within South Ayrshire the A70 has been widened and the road capacity increased making the road much safer for motorists.
Councillor Bill McIntosh, Leader of South Ayrshire Council said: “South Ayrshire Council is spending around £10 million over five years to improve the quality of our roads and make them safer, which is the biggest investment in our roads network for more than 10 years. The award recognises our determination to work with partners to improve all aspects of our roads.”
