Roadworks out of tune with festival

May 15 2009 by Iain Howie, Stirling Observer Friday

ORGANISERS of amusic festival in Fintry which is due to start next week are unhappy that major roadworks will disrupt the event.

A section of the main route, the B822, into the village is to be shut for up to four weeks by Stirling Council while it replaces the Lernock bridge.

It will mean a detour for villagers, but also a headache for the summer music festival which runs for three days from next Friday.

But, Stirling Council has previously defended its position, saying it has been working on the route and the bridge replacement for eight years and that to put it back would mean reopening consultation with every affected party. A postponement could also mean that it could cost the council up to £7000.

In previous years the festival has also been run in June but this year the event is taking place earlier.

There are concerns that it could disrupt the festival, which is a major fundraiser for the sports club.

Sports Club chairman, Chris Longley said: “Our festival, which attracts hundreds of visitors over its three-day run, begins on Friday, May 22 and continues on the Saturday and Sunday, and many of those attending would approach the village via Kippen.

“These roadworks will put paid to that and necessitate a lengthy detour.”

He added: “We are going to ask local councillors if they can intercede to either get the start of the roadworks put back by a few days, or arrange that access by the Kippen road is made possible on the three days of the festival.”

Correspondence from the council seen by the Observer says that the council has consulted with farmers, community councillors and others about the bridge closure.

The council said that efforts have been going on since 2001 about the bridge, which has been struck by vehicles and is now needing repair.

Headlining this year’s festival will be the internationally acclaimed Capercaillie.

Their debut is followed on the Saturday by Kings of Queen, frequently described as the ultimate and best tribute band. Tickets are available from the club on 01360 860 205.