West Lothian roadworkers hit with ‘aggressive’ abuse from frustrated locals

Road workers in West Lothian have reportedly faced aggressive abuse from frustrated locals as they carried out vital work in Linlithgow High Street. The road and footway resurfacing project led to a complete closure of the street for ten days, causing disruptions for local businesses, shopkeepers, and residents.

Local Lib Dem Councillor Sally Pattle, who also owns a bookshop in the town, condemned the abusive behaviour towards the road workers but acknowledged the significant disruption caused by the roadworks. She highlighted the lack of consultation and communication regarding the timing of the works, stating that local business groups were not involved in the decision-making process.

Councillor Pattle emphasised the negative impact on independent businesses in the area, particularly during the busy Christmas period. She called for better coordination between the council and local stakeholders to minimise disruptions and improve communication for future projects.

Despite the challenges faced by the road workers, including abusive behaviour and misinformation on social media, the council emphasised the importance of the roadworks in improving infrastructure. They reiterated that safety measures were in place to protect both the public and workers, and unauthorised access to the worksite was not permitted.

As the roadworks near completion, Councillor Pattle expressed her intention to address the issue with the council in the New Year, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure better collaboration between all parties involved.

In summary, the roadworkers in West Lothian have faced challenges and abuse while carrying out essential roadworks, prompting calls for improved consultation and communication to mitigate disruptions and support local businesses. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respectful communication and collaboration in infrastructure projects to benefit both the community and workers involved.