Councillor Presses For Action On Bypass Cycleway 'Missing Link'

Peterhead South SNP councillor Stephen Smith is hopeful that Aberdeenshire Council will take the initiative to complete the missing section of the pedestrian and cycleway on the southside of the Peterhead bypass.

Sections of the route have been the responsibility of local developers to provide under planning conditions in the past, but Cllr Smith is seeking action to complete the missing section, saying he is regularly approached on the issue by cyclists, walkers and members of Peterhead’s highly-successful JogScotland club.

Now, following approaches by Cllr Smith to Aberdeenshire Council, Director of Infrastructure Stephen Archer has confirmed that the council will look to complete the missing section.

In a letter to Cllr Smith, Mr Archer states:

“Given that Peterhead is a cycling demonstration town and the Council is committing significant resources to cycling in Peterhead, officers in transportation will explore a funding package of detailed costs and possible funding partners (for example Transport Scotland, Nestrans, Sustrans, planning gain funds, or the Revenue budget). 

“I am hopeful that a package can be put together to see the cycle link implemented subject to budget and other funding mechanisms being secured.  I will keep you updated on the progress being made by officers.”

Commenting, Cllr Stephen Smith said:

“This is an issue which gets raised with me regularly by cyclists, walkers and joggers who are extremely frustrated that the excellent facility all around the bypass which they use comes to an abrupt end at probably the busiest section of the road.

“I’m pleased that the council have taken on board the points I have put to them and will now look to take action to complete the missing link. 

“Hopefully this can be carried out as soon as possible once a funding package is put together and this will improve road safety at this location.”