Roundabout construction work starts next week

Traffic restrictions will be in place in Kirkwall from Monday, February 8, as part of work to build a roundabout at the junction of New Scapa Road, the Holm Branch Road and the new Scapa Link Road.

During the construction phase beginning on Monday, the Holm Branch Road and the section of New Scapa Road leading to and from Kirkwall will remain open – with temporary traffic lights in operation to control the flow of traffic.

But the section of New Scapa Road leading to Scapa beach from the Holm Branch Road junction will be closed.

The alternative route to Scapa beach from the Old Scapa Road will be signposted.

Darren Richardson, Orkney Islands Council’s head of roads and environmental services, said: “These restrictions are expected to be in place until early in March.

“They are a necessary part of the project to connect the new link road into the existing roads network.

“For practical construction and safety reasons a road closure is needed. It will mean some disruption while the closure is in place and we thank road users and local residents in advance for their patience and co-operation during the construction work.”

Throughout this period a temporary footway will be in place to provide access to the Crantit Trail.