A78 road campaigner Archie Burleigh has again warned Transport Scotland to address the ‘Ashcraig bends’ or face the risk of more serious accidents at the blackspot.

Mr Burleigh, who is referring to the Largs-Skelmorlie coastal road, has urged Transport Scotland to think again about their decision to rule out an upgrade.

In a letter to Phil Hinchliff, Area Manager South for Network Maintenance, Mr Burleigh said: “Just north of the Auchengarth farm road exit south of Meigle, there is a dip in the road.

“The east verge has a roadside ditch, but unfortunately for the designer of same, the invert of the road crossing culvert to the south end of the ditch is almost level with the crown of the road at the start of the ditch some 40 metres north. Put otherwise, water doesn’t flow uphill. A new crossing is urgently required as today the flood/water level in this area was full road width and some 140mm deep.

“Secondly, continuing north from the Auchengarth dip, the road turns quickly eastwards. On the east side of the road there is a lagoon with a small catch pit and an outfall across to the northwest side of the road.

“The catch pit is submerged and the pipe entrance blocked with detritus. This is due in part to the installation not being up to standard and the catch pit lid and top section of the chamber having disappeared or been displaced. On the outfall side, the pipe is buried in the rib rap above the shore and furthermore has been cut and damaged during the installation of supports for a roadside barrier rail. Today the water was all the way across the road at this juncture.

Mr Burleigh concluded: “You appreciate that this scenario has prevailed for a number of years, but in recent times has got much worse. By the grace of God we haven’t had any serious accidents this winter because of the mild conditions, however as you are well aware, the situation can change rapidly.” Mr Hinchcliff responded: “Thank you for your email and the detailed explanation of your concerns. I can confirm that this complaint has been forwarded to the Operating Company (Scotland Transerv) to investigate and report back to me. I have also instructed them to update you directly.

“It should be noted, however, that the construction of any new works is subject to available budgets and competing priorities across the network.”