A PEDESTRIAN was almost knocked down by a vehicle in The Square near Cumnock town centre recently.

It was only by chance that the person, who was coming out of one of the shops there, avoided being hurt.

This has prompted calls for The Square to be completely pedestrianised, which is not the case currently, although many people feel there should at least be restrictions.

One prominent member of the community has called for action, although he stops short at advocating a complete ban.

The Reverend John Paterson of Old Cumnock Old Church said: “The Square has always been considered a safe place for pedestrians and families. On occasion funeral and wedding cars have entered the Square at slow speed and with care, however many of the vehicles that now enter the Square do so at speeds beyond safe, not knowing what or who is round the corner or about to step out of one of the shops.

“Vehicles parking in the Square can hide pedestrians and moving vehicles could be taken by surprise by children or the elderly coming out from a blind spot.

“Sight impaired, some with guide dogs, and hearing impaired have historically, rightly or wrongly, considered Cumnock Square as pedestrianised.

“This perception could result in a tragic accident if the appropriate signage and road traffic regulations to prohibit vehicles from the entering The Square are not brought into force at the earliest opportunity.”

Apart from people going to and from church services, weddings and funerals, many others are regularly in The Square for a variety of reasons.

One resident, who visits several of the businesses there, said: “It is also used by members of the public walking to and from the bus station or using the Square’s shops, cafe and the nearby post office.

“In addition, pupils from Greenmill Primary and Cumnock Academy walk through the Square every morning and afternoon as well as during their lunch breaks.

“A new bye-law needs to be brought in to pedestrianise the area, I believe that is the only solution.”

Ayrshire Roads Alliance are responsible for traffic issues in East Ayrshire.

Stewart Turner, Head of the Ayrshire Roads Alliance said: “We were concerned by this complaint and would remind all motorists and pedestrians that even a slow moving vehicle can be dangerous.

“It is easy to be distracted when out and about shopping, or enjoying a walk in The Square, but we’d ask all pedestrians to remember that this is still an area where regular deliveries are made to shops, traders and offices and where services, weddings and funerals take place at the church.

“Equally, we’d encourage all those who rely on vehicles attending their premises to remind their drivers and agents that accessing The Square should be done slowly and respectfully, keeping an eye out for pedestrians - especially older people, those with disabilities, or children.

“There’s no excuse for inappropriate driving in this area and we’ll closely monitor this situation to see if any action might be required to maintain public safety.”