Initial fears that building a new central street running through Whitfield could cause speeding problems have been allayed.
As part of the regeneration of Whitfield it is intended to build a new spine road crossing the estate from east to west at a cost of £2.65 million.
All three city councillors for the North East ward, which takes in Whitfield, have welcomed the project. The road is designed to connect residents to new services and facilities being developed in Whitfield.
Councillor Brian Gordon said consultation with local people on the regeneration had been going on for more than two years. He acknowledged reservations had been expressed about the potential for speeding but said it is intended to have traffic calming measures like speed bumps put in as well as pedestrian crossings.
“My impression is most people with worries about the road have had their fears allayed,” he said. “The regeneration of Whitfield is a very extensive project and it needs a road connecting the various facilities.”
Councillor Andy Dawson said “The new road is going to be vital for Whitfield to get the various services and facilities joined together across the estate.”
He said the safety concerns would be addressed.
Councillor Willie Sawers welcomed the road. “It’s crucial to Whitfield’s whole redevelopment,” he said.
At a meeting of the recess sub-committee next week councillors will be asked to accept a tender for the road.
A report by city engineer Fergus Wilson said detailed proposals for the road had been developed and a partnering contract negotiated with Tayside Contracts.
“The proposals will provide a new road and footpath/cycleway to improve access across the Whitfield area as a strategic element of the Whitfield Development Framework,” he said.
It is anticipated regenerating Whitfield will see around 1000 new houses built and the population rise by between 2000 and 3000.
Additional planned facilities include a new school to replace both Whitfield and Newfields primaries and the Whitfield Community Early Years centre, plus a life services facility which will house health, social work and leisure and communities staff under one roof.