Faith is being placed in drivers to obey a proposed new speed limit on one of the East Neuk’s busiest roads.
Councillors will vote this week on whether or not to approve a new 20mph speed limit on the A915 Largo Road through Lundin Links, enforced only by new lines and signs.
They are likely to approve the proposal when they meet on Wednesday, having rejected the option of using speed cushions on the busy route.
However, road users have been warned that if initial surveys show the new measures not to be working, then humps will be put in place.
Bob McLellan, head of transport at Fife Council, said the councillors’ preferred option was not ideal, stating: “To achieve the aim of lower and safer speeds on the A915 Lundin Links, the signing and lining only option is not the recommended long-term solution for this route.
“However the service recognises the local concerns and reticence towards the immediate installation of vertical features on this route.
“The non-vertical measures option can be tested and if after regular monitoring it is found that the scheme is not achieving the required speed reduction then the speed cushion scheme will need to be installed without delay.”
The route, considered by many as the Gateway to the East Neuk is used by thousands of vehicles every day.
The stretch, which connects Lundin Links with the Largo junction, is currently covered by a 30mph limit, although both local councillors and Police Scotland have expressed support in reducing this to 20mph.
However, following initial consultation with residents, objections were raised about the prospect of installing speed bumps, resulting in this proposed trial phase.
Mr McLellan added: “While the introduction of a 20mph speed limit without physical traffic calming is a departure from recognised standards and guidance, in recognition of the strong local request, a trial period of the speed reduction scheme without vertical measures will be tested initially on this busy A-class road.
“The use of vertical traffic calming measures (speed cushions) will only be taken forward if the signing and lining option does not produce the required speed reduction for a 20mph mandatory speed limit.”