DRIVERS in Kilwinning are being urged to be aware of new restrictions to the town’s Main Street.

Kilwinning’s community councillors voted last year to demand action on cars illegally using the Main Street after further complaints.

After writing to the town’s Locality Partnership, it was agreed there should be restrictions imposed on vehicles.

Now a temporary traffic order is being introduced which will restrict access for vehicles between 10.30am and 4.30pm, Monday-Saturday starting Monday, January 11.

Cllr Jim Montgomerie, Cabinet Member for Green New Deal and Sustainability, said: “We have introduced these measures in response to increasing community concerns for the safety of pedestrians on Kilwinning’s Main Street.

“Initially, it will be for a period of 18 months after which we will review the changes and determine their effectiveness before deciding if the temporary traffic order should be made permanent.

“This is a move which I’m sure will be welcomed by those who use Main Street and hopefully result in a safer area for pedestrians.”

Access for loading by permit holders, delivery vehicles, blue badge holders and taxis will continue to be permitted out with the restricted hours (before 10.30am and after 4.30pm), Monday to Saturday.

Emergency vehicles are exempt from restrictions as well as funeral cars accessing Abbey Church.

On Sundays, vehicle access will be permitted between the hours of 10.30am and 4.30pm by permit holders, delivery vehicles, blue badge holders and taxis.