An MP is demanding the Scottish Government puts up road signs on single track roads to help with frustration behind the wheel.
Western Isles MP Angus Brendan MacNeil has written to transport minister Michael Matheson to suggest that more information is needed to raise awareness about the use of passing places in rural areas.
Mr MacNeil suggests that the correct use of passing places should be promoted, in order that motorists unfamiliar with single track roads understand that passing places are not just for oncoming traffic – but also to allow overtaking.
Mr MacNeil said: “This can be very frustrating for locals, particularly when people are driving very slowly, admiring the scenery – but do not use passing places to allow for overtaking.
“Locals going about their day-to-day business can often find themselves not progressing very far and this causes stress when they might have other transport links to catch, appointments or work commitments.
“This problem is becoming more acute each summer as visitor numbers increase and while we warmly welcome visitors, it must be understood that passing places are not just for oncoming traffic but also to allow for overtaking.
“I have written to the transport minister to suggest that this issue is addressed with a view to increasing the promotion on the correct use of passing places.
“Signs at various points along single track roads with short sharp message “Let cars behind past” may help. Local authorities may also want to apply their thinking to the problem as well.”
