A COUNCILLOR has criticised transport chiefs over a looming A78 weekend closure in Wemyss Bay and fears it will cause chaos for local people.

Labour's Paul Cassidy says residents should have been given more warning of such a significant shutdown.

A key section of the A78 will be closed at the Ardgowan Road junction to St Joseph's and St Patrick's Church from Friday November 24 at 8pm to 6am on Monday November 27.

The works form part of a wider package of improvements Amey is making to the A78 at Wemyss Bay.

But Councillor Cassidy, who represents Inverclyde South West, is unhappy with how the arrangements for it have been handled.

He said: "I have campaigned for years alongside the Inverkip & Wemyss Bay Community Council to see improvements made to the A78 to ensure the safety and reliability of the road.

“However, I am extremely disappointed and concerned with Amey’s failure to provide advanced notification to residents, local business, and the churches about this work.

"I am also concerned about the 50-mile detour that is being put in place for those coming from Ayrshire or Rothesay to Inverclyde, or indeed those heading to Ayrshire or Rothesay, will have to take.

“Amey have already caused significant disruption and tested locals’ patience over the past few weeks with works being carried out at the Ardgowan Road junction.

“Residents, local businesses and the 11,700 drivers who use this road daily according to Amey deserve better from them and indeed Transport Scotland who are ultimately responsible for the road."