A DUMBARTON councillor has warned the temporary closure of the town’s High Street will have a negative impact on traffic flow.

The main thoroughfare closed to all vehicles on Monday, February 10, due to a dangerous chimney, and it is set to remain closed for up to 21 days.

West Dunbartonshire Council confirmed there is a diversion route through Riverside Lane.

Councillor David McBride, who represents the town, said: “The current closure of the High Street appears to have been a necessary precaution in terms of public safety.

“This will undoubtedly have a negative effect on the road traffic flow and parking in an already traffic congested town centre area.

“Hopefully full inspections and repair on the chimney will be carried out as soon as possible and any restrictions removed.”

The High Street will remain open for pedestrians and a temporary bus stop has been installed on Bridge Street for bus diversions.

Damon Scott, the boss of the Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce, has claimed the temporary closure of Dumbarton’s High Street should not have a detrimental impact on businesses.

Damon said: "My understanding is that it is just vehicular traffic that is being affected and that pedestrian traffic will continue as normal. With deliveries usually taking place at the rear of retail businesses I would hope that this situation won't cause a major impact on the operations of the majority of businesses or on footfall.

“Personal safety has to be a priority and it is of utmost importance that proper procedures are followed and that all parties are confident that any risks have been removed before re-opening.

“Of course the Chamber stands ready to provide any assistance to local businesses that we can should they require it and we hope that the situation is resolved as soon as is possible.”

Elsewhere, Storm Ciara has caused issues with local flooding, particularly at Posties Park, and the River Leven also burst its banks.

Damon added: “Personal safety has to be a priority and it is of utmost importance that proper procedures are followed and that all parties are confident that any risks have been removed before re-opening.”

A Met office Yellow weather warning for rain and wind was also in place across Dumbarton and the Vale over the weekend as Strom Dennis brought five inches of rain.

The forecast for the coming week isn’t much better either at the moment.

Train services throughout the area have so far continued to be largely unaffected however travellers are encouraged to continuously check for any updates via the relevant websites.

The announcement of the closure comes just after ShoeZone shut its doors to the public for the final time after 20 years of trading.

Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce can provide help to any local businesses on the High Street.

Contact them at dunbartonshirechamber.co.uk.