Work on a major flood protection scheme has resumed after weeks of delays caused by the pandemic.
Contractors McLaughlin and Harvey Ltd started construction on the Stonehaven Flood Protection Scheme last March, but had to down tools in adherence with Scottish Government advice on construction sites during the lockdown.
The team is now back at work after restrictions were eased.
Aberdeenshire Council’s principal engineer for major projects, Rachel Kennedy, said: “The contractors will initially be bringing a small number of personnel onto the site who will be erecting signage and making adaptions to welfare units and offices.
“In due course, additional personnel will join them to restart the pumping equipment on-site and to make general site preparations to enable construction works to commence as the Scottish Government phases permit.”
The project will reduce the flood risk to 372 residential properties, primarily around the River Carron.
It was planned to be finished by spring, however due to Covid-19 and other issues, a new date is yet to be confirmed.
The project includes the construction of new walls, embankments, culverts, and alterations to five bridges all along the River Carron and its tributaries as they pass through Stonehaven.
Although the works have caused some disruption for the community, Ms Kennedy said most people have been understanding, and she believes when the project is done it will give “the Stonehaven community peace of mind for decades to come”.
She added: “We understand this scheme has had a major impact on the lives of many residents and businesses.
“We appreciate that there has been disruption in terms of road, bridge and footpath closures – some of which have been extended by necessity – but the scale and complexity of this engineering project cannot be underestimated.”