A DUNFERMLINE resident has called for the re-routing of a diversion put in place near his home.

Mike Arthur, who lives in Maitland Street, said work on a faulty underground cable in William Street – which has led to several power cuts in recent months – has meant traffic is diverted near his home while emergency repairs take place each time.

After the latest incident recently, he claimed the temporary measures saw several near-misses within days.

He explained: "Fife Council divert the traffic along Dewar Street to the very tight and dangerous crossroads at Maitland Street. Not only is Dewar Street jammed with parked vehicles, it also has a very busy primary school. Therefore, pandemonium ensues when the children go in and out of school.

"Already in the first day of the diversions, I have seen three very close shaves with vehicles at the crossroads. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to work out how dangerous this is.

"Why do Fife Council not divert traffic along wider and safer roads? Surely it would be much safer to divert traffic along Golfdrum Street towards Chalmers Street?

"Not only that, the traffic gets very busy from around 6am which makes it a nightmare for all residents concerned.

"It has happened now three times in the space of a few months."

Fife Council's website confirms the emergency works has led to the closure of William Street from the junction with Dewar Street to the junction with Berrylaw Road.

While stating that pedestrian access had been maintained, it said the alternative route for through traffic was via William Street, Pittencrieff Street, Maitland Street and Dewar Street.

The roadworks are due to be in place until 7pm tomorrow (Friday).

The Press contacted Fife Council for comment on May 4 but they had still not replied by the time we went to print.