Cameras watch traffic in Kirkwall

Cameras have been installed looking down on motorists in an area of Kirkwall, as part of a survey in relation to the proposed new hospital planned for Orkney.

NHS Orkney hospital project director Gordon Shirreff said: “As part of our ongoing work to determine the best possible solution for the proposed hospital site we are undertaking detailed traffic surveys. This work, in conjunction with public soundings and feedback, will be essential in the planning and design process.

“This survey will measure the existing volume of traffic on the road network; the volume of traffic associated with the proposed hospital will then be added. This allows us to develop a traffic model to ensure that junctions will still operate at an acceptable level throughout the day. If the operation of any junction falls below an acceptable level then improvement and/or mitigation measures will be identified. This modelling is being carried out for seven junctions.”

He added: “It is very likely that the Muddisdale Road/ Pickaquoy Road Junction will be upgraded to a roundabout and this will have considerably greater capacity than the existing junction.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to remind residents across the county that a public consultation event will take place in Kirkwall between 7pm and 9pm on July 2. There will also be an open day on July 3 – both events taking place in the Upper Room, King St Halls. We’re hoping to see as many people as possible at both events.”