Published: Friday, 22nd January, 2010 10:45am

"What gives Amey the right to torpedo the traffic plan?"

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The long-awaited Largs Traffic Management plan, which was finally due to begin construction this month, has been plunged into chaos.

The 'News' can reveal that Amey road contractors are attempting to block the Largs town centre traffic plan at the last minute.

The scheme to improve the traffic flow in Largs which was agreed after years of consultation, and was expected to start this month has been halted by North Ayrshire Council after Amey submitted late objections.

Largs SNP Councillor Alan Hill said: "What gives Amey the right to torpedo the traffic plan? Were Amey as the trunk road contractors not consulted by Transport Scotland who are responsible for roads?

"My immediate worry is that the money set aside by the council for this financial year will be lost. Apparently NAC roads department is worried about the viability of the scheme in light of Amey's appraisal of the agreed design."

It is believed that Amey have objected to the fundamental principles of the plan such as a new roundabout in Main Street, new bus stops, lights and parking.

Cllr. Hill added: "We have to ask why Amey are coming out at the eleventh hour? Were they not kept informed by Transport Scotland who are partners in the scheme? What is Amey's involvement other then making comments."

There was an angry reaction from Largs Community Council chairman Ian Murdoch upon hearing of the objections. He said: "This is scandalous.

"If we don't do the traffic management now, we may never do it. It is critical to the tourism in Largs that we have a good traffic management system which everyone is happy with."

A spokesperson for Transport Scotland said: "Amey is working on behalf of Transport Scotland on the design for the improvement of the A78 trunk road through Largs. The final decision on whether the scheme is acceptable rests with Transport Scotland as the Roads Authority for the A78.

"We are working closely with North Ayrshire Council, their consultants and Amey to determine the optimum design solution that meets current road safety and design standards. We hope to conclude discussions with North Ayrshire Council shortly for intended delivery of improvements by the end of this financial year."