Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MP Angus MacNeil has written to Transport Minister Michael Matheson MSP to suggest that more signage is needed to raise awareness about the use of passing places on single track roads.

Mr MacNeil is suggesting that the correct use of passing places should be promoted more so motorists unfamiliar with single track roads understand that passing places are not just for oncoming traffic but also to allow overtaking and that use of the rear-view mirror is vitally important.

This is a particular problem with vehicles coming off ferries when there can be a convoy of vehicles behind someone who may be driving on a single track road for the first time and does not realise that passing places should be used to allow for overtaking as well as giving way to oncoming vehicles.

Commenting Angus MacNeil said:

“This can be very frustrating for locals, particularly when people are driving very slowly, admiring the scenery but do not use passing places to allow for overtaking.

“Locals going about their day-to-day business can often find themselves not progressing very far and this causes stress when they might have other transport links to catch, appointments or work commitments.

“This problem is becoming more acute each summer as visitor numbers increase and while we warmly welcome visitors, it must be understood that passing places are not just for oncoming traffic but also to allow for overtaking.

“I have written to the Transport Minister to suggest that this issue is addressed with a view to increasing the promotion on the correct use of passing places. Signs at various points along single track roads with short sharp message “Let cars behind past” may help.  Local authorities may also want to apply their thinking to the problem as well.”

ENDS