Plans to introduce a one-way system into the centre of Blairgowrie have raised concerns.
The proposals are part of a six-figure regeneration of Wellmeadow and will place restrictions on a short section of road near the Co-operative store.
In a report to go before councillors, depute environment director Barbara Renton said it would increase pedestrian safety and improve access.
These views are not shared by the Co-operative Group and they claim the move will “threaten” the long-term viability of their business, as well as presenting new hazards for motorists.
Meanwhile, local residents are also wary of the effect the plans could have on the area. Catherine Robertson revealed it could confuse visitors by forcing them to take a less direct route back to the centre of town.
According to the plans, shoppers will have to turn right off Commercial Street into the Wellmeadow service road before they can access the store.
Upon exiting, they will then have to travel through the Wellmeadow car park a busy bus route to Terminus Street.
Mrs Robertson told The Courier this could cause significant problems for both residents and those unfamiliar with the layout of Blairgowrie, as well as claiming that the proposals do nothing to resolve the issue of the dangerous junction at Terminus Street.
She said: “People are going to have to go right round the town with the one way system.
“The junction on to Terminus Street is not ideal because, if a car is sitting there waiting to get out, buses cannot get around them. There is very little room for manoeuvre and this is going to be the main route for buses under these new plans.”
Meanwhile, local taxi drivers are also concerned about the knock-on effect the proposals could have on their customers, claiming that by being forced to take a longer route, they will have to charge a higher fare.
Undeterred by the objections raised, Ms Renton has advised members of Perth and Kinross Council’s enterprise and infrastructure committee to set them aside.
She said: “The proposal to introduce a one-way system on a short section of road at Wellmeadow is integral to the improvements proposed at the bus stance area, as it will allow the proposed traffic signals to operate effectively.
“The traffic signals could not operate efficiently or safely if the road remained two-way.
“The traffic signals have been carefully designed and are considered to provide significant benefits to all road users in the area.”
In total, £820,000 will be spent to improve the town centre, including creating a new bus stance and changing traffic flow, as part of efforts to revitalise Blairgowrie and attract more visitors.