A group of Deeside families are now able to enjoy safe walks around their village thanks to a new footpath.
Residents of Marywell, in the Ballogie area, have long called for a path so they could avoid walking along the busy South Deeside Road to get to their local amenities – including the nursery.
Now a half-mile path connecting the upper and lower areas of the village has been officially opened, thanks to the Ballogie Community Association (BCA), in partnership with Ballogie Estate and local farmer Gordon Dinnie.
Local resident, David Younie, who helped to secure funding for the project said: “A safe pedestrian connection between the different parts of the hamlet of Marywell, including the Ballogie nursery, the post box and the Butterworth Gallery, avoiding the busy B976 South Deeside road, has been a long held desire in the community.
“The new path is perfect for walking or cycling, and has transformed Marywell and Ballogie for both locals and visitors.
“As well as facilitating safe walking within Marywell itself, it also enables walkers to cross from one side of the wider Ballogie Estate path network to the other without having to walk along the main road. We are delighted with the outcome.”
Funding for the path was provided by Aberdeenshire Council’s planning gain fund, as well as £10,000 from Awards for All Scotland.
Parent Fiona Carter, who lives in Ballogie and is member of the community association, said: “It’s been so frustrating living in this beautiful place, only 400 metres (1,300ft) from the nursery, but having to take my daughter Millie to nursery in the car.
“The nursery staff are also pleased because the path will allow more opportunities for the children to explore the countryside around them.”