Haulier is told to think again on yard access

William Armstrong Limited promised to create more jobs and warned it will have to think about its long-term future in Bothwellpark Industrial Estate if it can’t improve access.

However, its proposal for a roundabout in Wilkie Road led to objections from nearby residents.

The firm has operated from the estate for the last 15 years and lodged plans with South Lanarkshire Council for new service workshops, offices and a new access for its heavy vehicles. The Carlisle-based firm expected to increase its 44-strong Uddingston workforce by 10 if it got the go-ahead.

All traffic currently uses an entrance in Goldie Road, but Armstrong wanted to construct a roundabout and access for HGVs in Wilkie Road, the main route through the estate from Bellshill Road and part of the National Cycle Network.

William Faulder, representing the company, said footpaths would be improved under the roundabout plan. He admitted in a statement lodged with the planning application that the current arrangements for vehicles going to and from the yard are not ideal.

He added: “We are also aware of concerns over footpath and road damage due to wagons turning and parking on the roadside.”

However, Bothwell Community Council said a roundabout and new access “would undoubtedly compromise the safety of pedestrians, children on their way to and from school and cyclists who use the walkway between Knockburnie Road and Goldie Road”.

The firm has been asked by council officials to think of an alternative scheme.

Uddingston councillor Maureen Devlin welcomed the move, saying: “I understand Armstrong wants to develop and increase employment, but these plans involved taking away part of the National Cycle Network.”