BUS priority lanes are being constructed along the A701 from Penicuik to Bilston.
Preliminary works started last month, prompting members of Penicuik and District Community Council to hit out at the lack of consultation.
At the community council December meeting, members noted that Midlothian Council had written advising that c
omments could be made by December 10. Community councillor Phil Spencer pointed out that on December 5 work had already begun.
Community council transportation spokesman David Ewart added: "The council seems to have made its decision. We can't possibly object. We could talk about it but they have decided and it has started. We could tear the letter up and throw it away. It doesn't mean anything."
However, Midlothian Council's strategic services spokesman, Councillor Russell Imrie, explained two letters were sent out to all statutory consultees, one with details of new traffic regulations and the other outlining the programme.
He said: "Funding for improvements to the A701 has been awarded by the Cities Growth Fund (£1.395m) and a SEStran grant (£200k) with a requirement to complete the works by March 2008. The work involves the design and construction of bus priority measures with cycling and junction improvements along the A701 corridor.
"These improvements will help to deliver more sustainable modes of transport to the area. Whilst the works are being undertaken, we will give priority to maintaining traffic flows, especially at peak times to minimise the disruption to road users.
"A letter was sent to statutory consultees, including emergency services, relevant transport bodies and community councils advising them of the proposal to make a new Traffic Regulation Order to introduce these bus lanes.
"The letter explained that formal objections were not invited at this stage, as a further period will be allowed for the submission of objections when the proposals are advertised. However, they were offered the opportunity to put forward their views at this stage if they wished.
"A separate letter was sent to the relevant community councils informing them that the construction work is programmed to begin in January 2008.
"The works which are being carried out currently are preliminary works in relation to some of the above works, to ensure that the project can be completed within the tight timescale indicated."
The full article contains 382 words and appears in Midlothian Advertiser newspaper.
