An accident which saw a car veer off the road into a Dundee student’s kitchen window has led to fears a pedestrian could be killed unless safety is improved.
The early morning crash happened at the junction of Horsewater Wynd and Guthrie Street.
The students living in the Keiller Court flat, managed by Ardmuir, were not home when the car crashed into the kitchen, smashing the lower window, which sits above the kitchen sink.
Stonework surrounding the window was also damaged, leaving parts of the car’s bumper wedged in it.
There were no injuries but West One Properties, which manages neighbouring flats, say they have been calling for the council to install pedestrian barriers in the area for almost a year to prevent such an accident.
Director Lee Chadwick first raised concerns someone could be knocked down in January but was told by the council the streetscape would “not provide enough space” for a barrier.
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Mr Chadwick said: “I have been asking for a vehicle barrier for the last 12 months to no avail.
“The fact there hasn’t been an accident in five years is a miracle.
“If the accident had happened at Hawkhill/Horswater Wynd someone would be dead if a car or lorry went into the ground floor bedroom that we manage. The impact could be catastrophic.”
The residents have been moved to temporary accommodation while the damage is surveyed and repaired.
Fraser Macpherson, who has called for a pedestrian safety review of the busy area for a number of years, said: “I agree with Lee.
“Some barriers placed along the pavement would make a lot of sense. It’s a frustration it has taken an accident for this to be taken seriously but we are where we are.
“Thankfully there has been no injuries. It reinforces the need for a review. The safety of pedestrians is paramount.”
He added: “The issue extends from Horsewater Wynd all the way along the north side of Hawkhill to the West Port Roundabout.
“The area is busy at all times of the day and night, particularly with students who live in flats around the area.”
A spokesman for the Police Scotland said the accident was reported shortly before 2am on Saturday.
He said: “A car had left the road and struck a building, however the driver of the car was not injured. The driver provided a positive breath test, and was arrested and charged with drink driving.
“He was released on an undertaking to appear at Dundee Sheriff Court at a later date.”
A Dundee City Council spokesperson said: “The Council monitors safety on roads across Dundee.”