Craig Hoy MSP has confirmed that long-awaited improvement works at the Bankton Junction near Blindwells are set to begin in March of this year.
The announcement came during a multi-stakeholder call the South Scotland MSP recently facilitated to break an apparent logjam in the upgrade works.
The online meeting involved representatives from East Lothian Council, BEAR Scotland, Transport Scotland, property developer Hargreaves and Port Seton and Longniddry Community Councils.
The works will start with the north roundabout and comes in the wake of considerable local concern about congestion and road safety because of increased car numbers, following the development of new houses at Blindwells.
Speaking after the meeting, Mr Hoy said: “I called this meeting with all key stakeholders following several doorstep conversations, emails and phone calls from concerned residents. The call was very productive, and I am pleased to confirm that works to widen the road and improve the junction and enhance traffic flow are due to be given the green light soon and likely to commence in March.”
Mr Hoy has expressed concern about the safety impact of static vehicles backing up onto the A1 and he sought reassurance that redevelopment of the roundabout and slip roads will alleviate this problem.
He also sought an update on whether another junction will be put in place as Blindwells development continues to grow.
He said: “While Transport Scotland said there are no current plans to add a new junction, I will continue to press for infrastructure that is fit-for-purpose as the local population and the Blindwells development continue to grow.”