A CONCERNED councillor fears 'danger drivers' who are speeding along single-track roads while a major route in and out of Barrhead is upgraded could cause a tragic accident.

Chris Lunday said he has been contacted by a number of worried residents who have complained about motorists travelling too fast since a year-long closure of Aurs Road began in January.

Among those who have raised concerns are residents in new estates in the Springhill area.

They have said drivers regularly speed along the likes of Springhill Road, Springfield Road, Glanderston Road, Balgraystone Road and Craigton Road.

Councillor Lunday, who represents Barrhead, Liboside and Uplawmoor for the SNP, said: “I have been contacted by a number of residents who are really concerned about the speed of vehicles on the back roads.

“I am aware that it will take time for people to adjust whilst Aurs Road is closed and that it is causing people upheaval.

“I hope that people can be mindful of the neighbouring properties and continue to be considerate when driving, especially in our countryside.”

The £23million transformation of Aurs Road, which connects Barrhead with Newton Mearns, is due to continue until December, leading to many drivers using back roads instead.

Councillor Lunday has contacted local police regarding speeding in the area and said he is hopeful they will take action.

“These roads can be dangerous and they are more congested than normal due to the [Aurs Road] closure," he added.

"It's important that people continue to drive safely."

The upgrade will transform Aurs Road from a winding, single carriageway to a safer, straighter road, with a new active travel route and waterside promenade overlooking Balgray Reservoir.

During the closure, which is in place from the junction of Springfield Road, in Barrhead, to the junction of Stewarton Road, in Newton Mearns, essential reservoir maintenance work will also be carried out on behalf of Scottish Water.

In January, the Barrhead News told how, since the work got underway, concerns have been raised about issues with potholes, traffic flow and traffic light sequences on routes adjacent to the project, particularly at Darnley Road.

A spokesperson for East Renfrewshire Council said: "Work to transform Aurs Road is progressing well.

"To facilitate the significant planned improvements, the road will be closed until December 2024.

"Nearby country roads are single-track roads, with no formal passing places, and are not suitable for diversion traffic.

"Signed diversion routes are in place via Stewarton Road, Nitshill Road and Darnley Road. We encourage drivers to follow the official diversion and have issued reminders on this.

"We appreciate there will be inconvenience caused by the road closure but the transformative impact of this project for generations to come will make the end result worthwhile.”

Police Scotland was approached for comment.