Stirling Council chiefs have defended a controversial 14-month closure on Cornton Road in Bridge of Allan, which will see the busy stretch shut as work continues on a new £16million flood prevention scheme.
The traffic order affects Cornton Road between its junctions with Orchard Road and Allanvale Road. The scheme is set to be completed by winter 2027.
Flood defences and protection
The new infrastructure will protect 87 properties and 700 metres of road from flooding from the Allan Water. Flood defence walls will be upgraded along Allanvale Road, Cornton Road and Fountain Road, and flood defence bunds added at Inverallan Road and the adjacent factory site.
Residents and businesses have reacted with fury to the southbound closure, raising concerns over bus coverage and commuting impacts.
Diversion routes
The traffic order outlines an alternative route for vehicles, directing them to Fountain Road, Henderson Street, Airthrey Road, Causewayhead Road before returning to Cornton Road. For goods vehicles and HGVs, a longer diversion runs via Henderson Street, Airthrey Road, the A907, A91, A905, Kerse Road and Burghmuir Road.
Council chiefs said a temporary access road would be in place for residents and that locals would be kept engaged over disruption or parking restrictions due to the prevention works.
Council statement
A Stirling Council spokesman said: “The length of the road closure reflects the time which will be required for the contractor to complete works associated with this section of the Bridge of Allan Flood Protection Scheme.
“A southbound only closure has been selected in this instance to minimise impacts on the surrounding road network.
“Steps to minimise disruption will include the creation of a temporary access road for residents at Lyon Crescent. Stirling Council is working closely with bus operators to reduce disruption to public transport and access to the nearby fire station will be maintained throughout the works.
“We have extensively engaged with local communities and businesses throughout the process of delivering the upgrades to Bridge of Allan’s Flood Protection Scheme and will continue to do so as work continues.
“There is no current expectations that the timetable of delivery will change and this will be monitored as closely as possible to address any unforeseen issues.
“The flood protection scheme will significantly reduce the risk of flooding to homes, businesses, and community facilities. Further information on the scheme is available on the Stirling Council website.”
