WEST FIFE commuters forced to cross a 70mph road to access the Halbeath Park and Ride are being backed by their MP.

Local campaigner Alan Scott told the Press last month that it was “only a matter of time before someone is killed” trying to cross the A92 - and now Douglas Champman has joined him in his fight for a lower speed limit.

Mr Scott, 42, has been campaigning for safer pedestrian and cycle access at the A92 dual carriageway for three years and started an online petition that has gathered a lot of support.

The Halbeath resident travels to work in Edinburgh from the park and ride but said anyone walking or cycling to the facility from Crossgates or Dunfermline is at risk as they have to cross a road with a 70mph speed limit.

Mr Chapman met Mr Scott this week and said: “The road is effectively a busy 70 mph motorway.

“I joined Mr Scott to see for myself how precarious it is for pedestrians, and improved signage and lighting around the crossing point would be a step forward, as would extending the 40mph zone between the roundabouts at Halbeath and Crossgates.”

Mr Scott said: “There are no cycle lanes and no traffic-controlled pedestrian crossing on this extremely busy, four-lane 70mph road. Quite frankly, it is a death trap.

“It is only a matter of time before someone is killed trying to access the park and ride. It’s very frustrating waiting for a gap in the traffic to cross. It’s certainly not easy.

“It’s also a heck of a lot busier than it used to be. Cycling takes me just as long as walking as I have to go down the back roads because it’s too dangerous to go on the A92.”

Mr Chapman will now raise the issue with Transport Scotland and Fife Council, adding: “I am asking them to visit the site with me and make recommendations on how this crossing point could be made safer for everyone.”

A Transport Scotland spokesperson said: “We assess the safety performance of the trunk road network on an annual basis and there have been no accidents on the A92 between Halbeath and Crossgates involving cyclists or pedestrians in the last three years.

“Over £34 million has been invested on the A92 since 2007 to ensure it is well maintained and operates safely. Anyone who has any concerns regarding the trunk road network is encouraged to contact Transport Scotland.

“We are open to any suggestions for improved pedestrian and cycling facilities and will continue to consider any request made to the agency.”