CONCERNS have been raised that emergency vehicles could struggle to reach villages in the Lammermuir Hills when the A1 is closed.

Roadworks have been carried out on much of the A1 in East Lothian in recent months.

While emergency vehicles are given access to the main route, concerns have been raised that they could be stuck in traffic when they are attempting to reach villages such as Oldhamstocks and Innerwick.

Conservative politicians Craig Hoy, South Scotland MSP, and Councillor Donna Collins, who represents the Dunbar and East Linton ward on East Lothian Council, are seeking to arrange a meeting between BEAR Scotland, East Lothian Council, Police Scotland, Transport Scotland and emergency services to explore the problem.

Mrs Collins said: “It is vital that our rural roads are accessible to emergency services at all times.

“We have a large population up here which grows in peak season to several thousand with visitors to Thurston Manor Caravan Park.

“We need clear access not only for emergency services for farmers if injured or there is a fire, but also for animal welfare issues and veterinary care.

“Blockages that cause delays that could be over an hour for a fire engine or ambulance to get to an emergency are unacceptable.”

Mr Hoy, a former councillor, was keen to see a meeting take place to ensure that emergency vehicles had no issues accessing the villages or remote properties.

He said: “It is absolutely crucial that any pre-planned road closures on the A1 take place at non-peak times and that there is contingency planning in place to ensure that emergency services can access Oldhamstocks, Innerwick and surrounding communities at all times.”