Aberdeenshire Council has urged motorists in the region to air their views on how to boost safety on one of the north-east’s deadliest roads.
A consultation is underway on measures to improve the A947 Aberdeen to Banff route over the next two decades.
Several sections of the 38-mile road have had minor upgrades over recent years, and police have cracked down on speeding drivers.
However, council chiefs are pushing to dramatically upgrade it in order to reflect its status as “an economic artery for business and industry located in North Aberdeenshire”.
The public consultation is reaching out to drivers and communities along the route, including in Turriff, Oldmeldrum and Newmachar.
A survey is available online, and in council offices, community centres and libraries along the A947.
A council spokesman said: “While work on local engineering interventions and enforcement will continue to help reduce accident rates, a longer term strategy is being developed.
“This is intended to outline improvements required to address strategic objectives for increased safety and improved journey times over the next 20 years.”
The A947 passes through three of the local authority’s administrative areas – Garioch, Formartine and Banff and Buchan.
Banff and Buchan area committee chairman John Cox, who has been a vocal supporter for improvements, welcomed the consultation.
He said: “We want to develop a route fit for the purpose of connecting communities along the route in a safe, effective, and sustainable manner while supporting regeneration activity in north Aberdeenshire.
“Understanding the thoughts and concerns of motorists using the A947 day in, day out should mean a more comprehensive strategy will be produced which reflects the concerns of regular road users.”
Formartine chairman Rob Merson said the transport network in the region was expected to “change dramatically” with the completion of the AWPR and improvements to A947 infrastructure would be a vital component.
Garioch chairman Fergus Hood added: “While it may not be a trunk road, the A947 plays a strategic role in Aberdeenshire’s transport network, connecting thousands of residents with jobs and other opportunities.”
The closing date for responses is Monday, September 7.