A petition calling for a rethink on plans to reroute a popular north-east path to make way for the Aberdeen bypass has been launched.
Residents of the Cults, Bieldside and Milltimber area have objected to plans to close off a section of the Deeside Way – a popular route for walkers, cyclists and horse riders.
Project partners in the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route want to close a section of the old railway line, near Milltimber Brae, for 14 months to allow construction work to take place.
But fears have been raised that an originally planned pedestrian bridge across the new bypass may no longer be built.
Now the community has launched a petition calling for Aberdeen City Council to enter “urgent discussions” with Transport Scotland and Aberdeen Roads Ltd, asking them to help build a footbridge over the AWPR for the Deeside Way to ensure the original route is retained.
Councillor Ross Thomson is firmly in favour of a bridge as the solution to the problem.
Mr Thomson, who is also the Tory candidate for Aberdeen South and North Kincardine, said: “The AWPR is going to cut right through it, so what this petition is saying is rather than have this ridiculous diversion there should be a footbridge which continues the Deeside Way right over the AWPR. It’s the logical, sensible and safest option.
“Because construction is going on right now, it would be less expensive to start working on this bridge now rather than waiting until it’s finished. I’ve been speaking to officers, and they agree that it’s the most sensible choice.”
A Transport Scotland spokesman said: “The permanent bridge, carrying Milltimber Brae over the AWPR, will also provide
users of the Deeside Way continued access along the Deeside Way and over the new AWPR as set out in the plans in 2007.
“An alternative short diversion route, via Milltimber Brae and North Deeside Road will be in place for approximately 14 months to allow the AWPR works, including construction of the new bridge, to take place.
“The planned diversion route will make use of public roads and public rights of way to safely guide users around the works.”
To sign the petition visit www.aberdeencity.gov.uk