Proposals to drastically improve a scenic walking route along the south Aberdeenshire coast have taken a step forward.
A new steering group was recently launched to help push forward upgrades to the coastal path between Inverbervie and St Cyrus.
The current route runs along the former railway line but has fallen into a state of disrepair, with some sections completely eroded.
However work has now started to improve the path, with the section running between Bervie and Gourdon now resurfaced.
Mearns councillor Leigh Wilson, has backed the upgrades at the path.
He said: “I remember the path before the work was done and it was almost unwalkable after spells of heavy rain, so what we have now is really ideal. It has also opened up access to people of all degrees of mobility.
“The next step of the project is an ambition to resurface the Gourdon to Johnshaven path. I know there are some land ownership issues so we will have to consider creative solutions but with the spirit of the community behind this I am confident that we can achieve our goals.”
The line was opened in 1865 but was closed almost 100 years later with the last journey made in May 1966.
Karen Kennedy, who leads the steering group, added: “The coastal path from Inverbervie through to St Cyrus is one of outstanding beauty and Heritage. It is found on several websites because it is an established walk.
“We want to restore the path so it is accessible to more walkers, local or visitors who can then share the exhilarating experience and take refreshments in the interlinking villages en route.”